Opinion ID: 2380773
Heading Depth: 1
Heading Rank: 2

Heading: issues

Text: Disbarment is generally the appropriate sanction when a lawyer knowingly converts or misappropriates client funds, unless significant factors mitigate that conduct. Respondent knowingly failed to return an arbitration fee to clients he had agreed to represent in arbitration after failing to perform services during that representation. In addition, Respondent failed to communicate with the clients and failed to return documents relevant to their case. What is the appropriate sanction for Respondent? Respondent has not participated in the disciplinary proceedings brought against him, and the Court is unaware of any factors that mitigate his conduct. After considering the nature of Respondent's misconduct and its consequences, the aggravating factors, and the absence of countervailing mitigating factors, the Court finds the appropriate sanction for his misconduct is disbarment.