Opinion ID: 1372272
Heading Depth: 1
Heading Rank: 5

Heading: The Hankins Matter:

Text: In June, 1985, respondent caused Bonita Hankins, the guardian of a minor, to pay him a $3,000.00 fee. Respondent neither provided services before the payment nor spent time afterwards to justify that fee. Respondent refunded the $3,000.00 prior to service of the complaint against him. Respondent's law partner noted irregularities in the firm's trust account and ordered an audit, which confirmed the above-noted misconduct. On September 9, 1985, respondent voluntarily ceased practicing law. The next day, he was admitted to McLeod Regional Medical Center under the care of Dr. Davis, a psychiatrist. Pursuant to this Court's order dated October 8, 1986, respondent was further examined by Dr. Sabalis, a clinical psychologist, and Dr. Harding, a psychiatrist.