Opinion ID: 2601926
Heading Depth: 1
Heading Rank: 8

Heading: David Bourelle Hires Respondent

Text: In January 2004, David Bourelle (Bourelle) suffered injuries in an automobile accident. In February 2004, Bourelle hired Respondent on a contingent fee basis to represent him in a potential lawsuit arising from his injuries. Bourelle reported head, knee, and neck injuries following the accident. Safeco had insured the at-fault driver who allegedly caused Bourelle's injuries. After taking Bourelle's case, Respondent worked with him and his medical providers to obtain care for the injuries and determine when he reached maximum medical improvement. However, by October 2004, Bourelle informed Respondent that he no longer wanted further treatment. Instead, he wanted to settle the dispute with Safeco and its at-fault driver. Based upon his client's direction to settle the case, Respondent prepared a settlement demand. However, Respondent chose not to immediately send the settlement demand to Safeco, because he was seeking additional documents, and because of the holiday season.