Allison v. Commission for Lawyer Discipline, Tex: Court of Appeals, 14th Dist. 2012 – Google Scholar.
The Texas Court of Appeals has affirmed a suspension for a lawyer who missed deadlines in an immigration matter and whose client was deported as a result. This is a case where a lawyer’s neglect of a matter results in professional discipline. The court rejected the lawyer’s argument that the client was difficult to reach.
The rule is quoted below:
“Rule 1.01(b)(1) states: “In representing a client, a lawyer shall not neglect a legal matter entrusted to the lawyer.” Tex. Disciplinary R. Prof’l Conduct 1.01(b)(1). A lawyermust pursue a matter on behalf of a client “despite opposition, obstruction or personal inconvenience to the lawyer.” Tex. Disciplinary R. Prof’l Conduct 1.01 cmt. 6.”
Edward X. Clinton, Jr.