Opinion ID: 1702504
Heading Depth: 1
Heading Rank: 1

Heading: Count I: Representation of Cochran

Text: On November 26, 1986, Melvin Cochran (Cochran) retained the respondent to represent him in a domestic relations matter by signing a retainer agreement and paying the respondent money toward covering attorney fees. On numerous occasions between December 1986 and January 20, 1987, Cochran attempted unsuccessfully to contact the respondent about the status of his case. Despite Cochran's attempts, the respondent failed to return his telephone calls or contact Cochran about the case. On January 20, 1987, Cochran sent a letter to the respondent requesting that she refund the monies paid for attorney fees and all of his personal papers. By January 30, 1987, the respondent filed a notice of appearance on behalf of Cochran. The respondent was notified of a hearing scheduled for February 5, 1987, and she advised Cochran that she would have the hearing continued. However, the respondent failed to move the trial court for a continuance and also failed to attend the hearing or have other counsel appear for Cochran. Cochran, relying on the respondent, did not appear. The trial court granted a final judgment of dissolution of marriage at the hearing. The referee found the respondent guilty of violating Disciplinary Rules 6-101(A)(3) (neglect of a legal matter), 7-101(A)(1) (a lawyer shall not intentionally fail to seek lawful objectives of a client), 7-101(A)(2) (failure to carry out contract of employment entered into with client) of the former Code of Professional Responsibility and Rule Regulating the Florida Bar 4-1.3 (a lawyer shall act with reasonable diligence and promptness in representing a client).