Opinion ID: 1408147
Heading Depth: 4
Heading Rank: 2

Heading: Triem neglected a legal matter in Zorich.

Text: Triem and Bar Counsel stipulated to the basic facts in the Zorich matter. As in Lubin, the only dispute concerns what Triem discussed with his client about his representation. The committee heard conflicting testimony about whether Triem discussed and obtained approval for an alternate strategy of clearing title. The committee found Zorich's testimony consistent and credible, and found Triem's testimony not credible. As stated above, factual findings made in the face of conflicting evidence ordinarily will not be disturbed. In re West, 805 P.2d at 353 n. 3. Triem has not shown that the committee's findings with respect to this issue are erroneous. Additionally, Triem's general lack of diligence in his representation of Zorich supports and makes more plausible Zorich's account of the facts. [21] Therefore, we find that Triem violated DR 6-101(A)(3), neglecting a legal matter entrusted to him. Triem's neglect of the Zorich matter occurred while Triem was on probation for ethical violations involving neglect and conduct that adversely reflected on his fitness to practice law. Therefore, Triem has proven that public censure or a period of probation is not effective in influencing his conduct. ABA Standards § 4.42 states that suspension is generally appropriate when a lawyer knowingly fails to perform services or engages in a pattern of neglect and causes injury or potential injury to a client. Although disbarment is recognized as the appropriate sanction in more egregious cases, [22] the cases cited in support of suspension reflect a level of misconduct in line with Triem's violations. ABA Standards § 4.42 commentary (citing cases involving failure to appear in court, failure to file pleadings, and failure to prosecute). Consequently, we order that Triem be suspended from the practice of law for a period of ninety days. We recognize that the ABA Standards disfavor suspensions of less than six months on the theory that such suspensions are a less effective means of rehabilitation. Commentary to ABA Standards Rule 2.3. However, in our view, under the circumstances of this case a ninety-day suspension will impose considerable hardship and will be a significant sanction for Triem, a solo practitioner in a small community. Additionally, we adopt the committee's recommendation that Triem be placed on probation and required to participate in continuing legal education on time and practice management. We remand for imposition of appropriate probationary terms and conditions.