Opinion ID: 1264855
Heading Depth: 2
Heading Rank: 6

Heading: The Builder Matter

Text: Respondent represented both the seller and buyer in a closing on 12 lots. Respondent was informed both before and after the closings that there were outstanding judgments and tax liens encumbering the property. Respondent continued with the closing and did not inform the purchasers or the lenders of the encumbrances. Respondent instructed his assistant to record the deed, even though encumbrances existed. Respondent closed several other properties for Builder in a similar fashion. The subpanel found Respondent violated the following Rules of Professional Conduct found in Rule 407, SCACR: Rule 1.1 (Competence); Rule 1.2 (Scope of Representation); Rule 1.3 (Diligence); Rule 1.5 (Fees); Rule 1.7 (Conflict of Interest-General Rule); Rule 4.1 (Truthfulness in Statements to Others); Rule 5.3 (Responsibilities Regarding Nonlawyer Assistants); Rule 8.4(a) (Misconduct-Violation of Rules of Professional Conduct); Rule 8.4(d) (Misconduct-Conduct Involving Dishonesty, Deceit and Misrepresentation).