Opinion ID: 2573333
Heading Depth: 1
Heading Rank: 3

Heading: DA9586Complaint by B.H.

Text: Regarding the complaint by B.H., the hearing panel found the following facts by clear and convincing evidence. In November 2004, B.H. hired Respondent to represent him in a civil case. Respondent filed a 10-day request for clerk's extension of time to file an answer, but he never filed an answer or other responsive pleading within the time extended by the clerk. In late December 2004, B.H. called Respondent for an update on the case. Respondent told B.H. he was still working on it and would let B.H. know as developments occurred. On January 6, 2005, default judgment was entered against B.H. Respondent testified he was not notified or aware of the default judgment. B.H. said he did not receive any notice of the judgment. In March 2005, B.H. attempted to obtain a loan and was told he was not eligible for a lower interest rate because of the outstanding civil suit. B.H. called Respondent to again inquire about the litigation's status and was told by Respondent that he would take care of it. But Respondent continued to take no action to further B.H.'s representation. In April 2005, B.H. again sought an update from Respondent and was told again Respondent would take care of it. Respondent also said he thought the opposing counsel was going to abandon the case. On May 31, 2005, B.H.'s wages were garnished. B.H. retained new counsel when he was unable to reach Respondent. B.H.'s new attorney obtained representation for B.H. through a home insurance policy, and the garnishment and default judgment were set aside.