Opinion ID: 2602241
Heading Depth: 1
Heading Rank: 4

Heading: Count One Failure to Promptly Reveal Information to Opposing Counsel Upon Request

Text: ¶ 9 Respondent admits what is alleged in Count One of the complaint: that he failed promptly to reveal to opposing counsel at the deposition of a witness the existence of an expert witness' notes (which were in respondent's possession). We reject the parties' stipulation that this conduct violates ORPC Rule 3.3(a)(4)(B). [13] While it is true that respondent did not immediately reveal the availability of his witness' notes, ORPC Rule 3.3(a)(4)(B) does not demand an instant response. Rather, the cited rule requires only that a lawyer promptly reveal the false character of evidence. As recognized by both parties in their stipulations, respondent provided opposing counsel with the requested documents before the deposition hearing came to its end. No evidence of prejudice occasioned by the slight delay is present in this record; rather, respondent fully repaired whatever harm might otherwise have occurred by surrendering the notes before anyone's legal position underwent a change and before any prejudice to opposing counsel could have resulted. Neither the stipulations nor anything else on file provides clear and convincing proof that respondent offended ORPC Rule 3.3(a)(4)(B). He must and hence does stand exonerated of that charge.