Opinion ID: 1857715
Heading Depth: 1
Heading Rank: 7

Heading: The Spencer Matter

Text: In January 1999, James Paul Spencer hired respondent to represent him in a DWI matter, paying him $500. Respondent appeared in court for Mr. Spencer's arraignment but performed no other work in the matter; nevertheless, he failed to refund the unearned portion of the fee Mr. Spencer paid. Respondent also accepted $2,000 to represent Mr. Spencer in a divorce proceeding. In this matter, respondent made only a single one-hour court appearance. Thereafter, he performed no other work in the matter and failed to refund the unearned portion of the fee. Respondent also failed to communicate with his client. In August 1999, Mr. Spencer filed a complaint against respondent with the ODC. The ODC alleged that respondent's conduct violated Rules 1.3, 1.4, and 1.5 of the Rules of Professional Conduct.