Opinion ID: 1755962
Heading Depth: 1
Heading Rank: 2

Heading: Dishonesty and misrepresentation.

Text: The record shows respondent repeatedly misrepresented to his clients that an escrow account had been established containing the down payment and monthly payments. In fact, no escrow account existed. Further, respondent on a number of occasions misrepresented the progress of the administration of the estate. Our rules clearly establish that a lawyer should conduct himself in his professional capacity with honesty and truthfulness, and should avoid statements or actions that are calculated to deceive or mislead. Committee on Professional Ethics & Conduct v. Hurd, 325 N.W.2d 386, 390 (Iowa 1982). Respondent's statements were dishonest and clearly misled his clients. See Committee on Professional Ethics & Conduct v. Kelly, 357 N.W.2d 315, 316-18 (Iowa 1984); Committee on Professional Ethics & Conduct v. Ryan, 341 N.W.2d 755, 756-57 (Iowa 1983). It is plain that a charge of violating DR 1-102(A)(4) would have been appropriate in these circumstances, but the complaint fails to list that rule. We do find, however, that respondent violated DR 1-102(A)(1) and (6).