Opinion ID: 1608332
Heading Depth: 1
Heading Rank: 3

Heading: Count II The Simmons/King Matter

Text: In early 2002, Cynthia Simmons hired respondent to represent her in a sexual harassment and wrongful termination claim against her former employer. Respondent neglected the matter and failed to communicate with Ms. Simmons regarding the status of her case. [2] In April 2002, Andrew King hired respondent to represent him in a criminal matter. Ms. Simmons and Mr. King reportedly paid respondent $1,500 towards her $2,500 flat fee at that time, and the remaining balance, $1,000, in June 2002. Respondent neglected Mr. King's criminal case and failed to attend his November 2002 parole hearing. [3] She also failed to communicate with Mr. King, especially regarding the fact that she could no longer represent him once she accepted a position as an assistant district attorney. Respondent failed to account for or refund the unearned fee. Respondent only acknowledges receipt of the $1,000 payment, and she maintains that she refunded that amount prior to starting her job with the Orleans Parish District Attorney's Office in May 2003. Ms. Simmons denied receiving a refund from respondent, and respondent did not provide evidence of the refund. In July 2004, Ms. Simmons and Mr. King filed a complaint against respondent with the ODC. Respondent failed to fully cooperate with the ODC in its investigation. The ODC alleged that respondent's conduct violated Rules 1.3 (failure to act with reasonable diligence and promptness in representing a client), 1.4, 1.5, 1.16(d), 8.1(c) and 8.4(a) of the Rules of Professional Conduct.