Opinion ID: 2509532
Heading Depth: 1
Heading Rank: 15

Heading: Aggravating Factors, ABA Standard 9.2

Text: Respondent acted dishonestly and with a selfish motive. While Respondent presented evidence that he converted client funds to keep his firm solvent, this motivation, nevertheless, amounts to a selfish motive. Equally important is the dishonesty inherent in his actions. He took advantage of the confidence his clients, colleagues, and the profession placed in him. He chose to promote his law firm above the needs of his clients.
The Hearing Board finds in this case that the evidence of multiple offenses and a pattern of misconduct merge. Respondent took client money from three separate clients. In addition, each time Respondent drew a check on the firm's trust account, he committed a new offense. As a result, he committed five separate offenses.
Ms. Lang, Mr. Coleman, and Ms. Talpalar sought help from Rhodes firm lawyers after suffering personal injuries. When Respondent took their money, he took advantage of the trust they placed in him. There is no evidence, however, that any of the victims suffered a disability or were otherwise vulnerable beyond the vulnerability of any client who depends upon his/her attorney to act with integrity in their affairs. [1]