Opinion ID: 1231258
Heading Depth: 1
Heading Rank: 1

Heading: Neglect and Misrepresentation

Text: Respondent represented John Thorn in several litigation matters. In October 1989, one of Thorn's cases was dismissed with prejudice for failure to comply with discovery orders or pay fees assessed against Thorn. Respondent failed to inform Thorn of the hearings or discovery orders. Respondent was hired in November 1988 to represent the Gustafsons in filing for bankruptcy. The Gustafsons gave respondent a personal computer and related equipment in lieu of a $1,000 retainer and paid him $95 for court filing fees. Several times, respondent assured the Gustafsons that he had filed their bankruptcy petition. In fact, respondent had not prepared the petition and had taken no action. The Gustafsons discharged respondent and demanded return of their computer or $1,000. Respondent has returned neither. Respondent represented Sam Hedge in several matters. Respondent failed to respond to Hedge's repeated requests from November 1988 through July 1989 for information regarding his cases and failed to return Hedge's files to him. Respondent represented the Carrolls in several litigations. Respondent did not perform the work requested, return phone calls, or return the files or unearned retainer. Respondent's neglect and misrepresentations violated Minn.R.Prof.Conduct 1.3, 1.4(a), 3.4(c), and 8.4(c).