In the Matter of David G. Hammock

Summary

The Supreme Court of Georgia addressed attorney-discipline charges arising from three matters in which David G. Hammock failed to communicate with clients, neglected cases, misrepresented case status, and failed to protect a client's interests. The Court found violations of Standards 4 and 44, Bar Rule 4-102(d), and Georgia Rule of Professional Conduct 8.4(a)(4), and imposed a two-year suspension. Justices Hunstein and Thompson dissented, concluding that disbarment was warranted.

Holdings

1. Hammock violated Standard 44 by failing to communicate with clients and properly handle their matters, and violated Standards 4 and 44 and Rule 8.4(a)(4) by misrepresenting the status of one case, abandoning another, and failing to protect a client's interests by defaulting on a summary-judgment motion.
2. A two-year suspension from the practice of law in Georgia was the appropriate sanction.

Questions Presented

1. Whether Hammock violated Georgia disciplinary standards and Rule 8.4(a)(4) by neglecting client matters, failing to communicate, misrepresenting case status, abandoning litigation, and failing to protect a client's interests.
2. What disciplinary sanction was appropriate in light of Hammock's violations and prior disciplinary history.

Disposition

other