Opinion ID: 1293246
Heading Depth: 2
Heading Rank: 2

Heading: Legal Representation Matter

Text: Respondent was retained by three clients and was paid a fee of either $3,000 or $3,500 by or on behalf of each client. The clients maintain that, upon his suspension, respondent failed to adequately communicate with them regarding their cases and they were required to retain other counsel to complete their litigation. Respondent acknowledges he did not communicate with the clients with reasonable diligence and promptness as required by Rules 1.3 and 1.4 of the Rules of Professional Conduct, Rule 407, SCACR, and that his physical and mental condition, caused by his drug dependency, may have impaired his ability to handle the clients' cases, in violation of Rule 1.16(a)(2), RPC, Rule 407, SCACR. Respondent also acknowledges the clients are entitled to a refund of their retainer fees, less any amount respondent earned by performing work on the clients' behalf.