Opinion ID: 1593294
Heading Depth: 1
Heading Rank: 9

Heading: Count VII The Shoemaker Matter

Text: In March 2001, Byron Shoemaker, who was in the U.S. Navy, retained respondent for the sum of $1,500 to represent him in connection with a disciplinary hearing before a military review board. [3] On the night before the hearing, respondent informed Mr. Shoemaker that he would be unable to appear at the hearing because his girlfriend was having a medical procedure. Respondent further indicated that he had left messages to this effect with the military board and assured Mr. Shoemaker that the hearing would not proceed in his absence. Despite respondent's assurances, the hearing was not continued and took place as scheduled. Mr. Shoemaker was represented by appointed military counsel at the hearing and was less than honorably discharged from the Navy. The ODC alleges that respondent's conduct violated Rule 1.3 of the Rules of Professional Conduct.