Opinion ID: 2126368
Heading Depth: 1
Heading Rank: 2

Heading: Neglect of Client Matters, Failure to Communicate with Clients, and Failure to Return Client Property

Text: We have repeatedly warned that [a] continuing pattern of client neglect is serious misconduct often warranting indefinite suspension by itself, Brooks, 696 N.W.2d at 88, and that more extreme cases involving client neglect and failure to communicate with clients may merit disbarment, In re De Rycke, 707 N.W.2d 370, 374 (Minn.2006). See also Grzybek II, 567 N.W.2d at 263. We have also stated that the failure to return client property and files upon the termination of the attorney-client relationship warrants serious treatment, particularly when this misconduct continued a pattern of conduct for which we already disciplined [the lawyer] and when this misconduct caused substantial inconvenience and unnecessary frustration to [the lawyer's] clients. Grzybek II, 567 N.W.2d at 263. The admitted allegations against Rhodes reveal a pattern of neglecting client matters and noncommunication with clients that involves seven new client matters and that closely resembles the misconduct for which we previously disciplined Rhodes. Moreover, the property Rhodes failed to return to his clients included original documents necessary to G.O. and L.O.'s mechanic's lien defense, an original abstract of title and property survey, and evidence regarding N.F.'s defense against criminal charges. Rhodes's retention of these documents likely caused a great deal of inconvenience to his clients. We conclude that this behavior constitutes serious professional misconduct and warrants severe discipline.