This summary was computer-generated without any editorial revision. It is not official, has not been checked for accuracy, and is NOT citable.
Facts
An attorney, admitted to practice in New Mexico, faced disciplinary proceedings for professional misconduct in three separate client matters. Allegations included neglecting a domestic relations case, failing to pay a client’s medical bill from settlement funds, and failing to appear at an administrative hearing due to alleged alcohol consumption. The attorney also failed to respond to disciplinary inquiries and formal charges (paras 2-5).
Procedural History
- Discipline Committee, prior to 1990: The attorney received a formal reprimand for neglecting appellate litigation and a 90-day suspension for trust account violations (para 8).
Parties' Submissions
- Disciplinary Board: Argued that the attorney violated multiple Rules of Professional Conduct, including neglecting client matters, failing to communicate, mishandling client funds, and failing to respond to disciplinary inquiries. Recommended indefinite suspension with conditions for reinstatement (paras 1, 6-8).
- Attorney (Pro Se): Did not file responsive pleadings, appear at hearings, or present arguments (paras 1, 6).
Legal Issues
- Whether the attorney violated the Rules of Professional Conduct in handling client matters.
- Whether the attorney’s failure to respond to disciplinary inquiries and formal charges warranted disciplinary action.
- What sanctions were appropriate for the attorney’s misconduct.
Disposition
- The attorney was indefinitely suspended from the practice of law for no less than one year, with conditions for reinstatement (para 9).
Reasons
Per curiam:
The court adopted the Disciplinary Board’s findings and recommendations, concluding that the attorney violated multiple Rules of Professional Conduct in three client matters. Specific violations included neglecting cases, failing to communicate with clients, mishandling client funds, and failing to respond to disciplinary inquiries. The court emphasized the attorney’s prior disciplinary history and noted indications of alcohol use contributing to the misconduct. Conditions for reinstatement included repayment of client funds, compliance with disciplinary orders, and addressing potential alcohol-related issues. The court also ordered publication of the suspension and appointed an attorney to inventory the suspended attorney’s open files to protect client interests (paras 1, 6-16).