In the Matter of Christine M. Livingston

Summary

The Supreme Court of Georgia imposed a one-year suspension on Christine M. Livingston for abandoning a residential real estate closing, failing to file necessary deed documents, and failing to respond to disciplinary proceedings. The court found violations of Georgia Rules of Professional Conduct 1.3, 1.4, and 9.3; three justices dissented and would have imposed disbarment.

Holdings

1. An attorney who fails to file a Notice of Rejection to the Notice of Discipline after proper service is in default and waives the right to an evidentiary hearing.
2. The admitted facts established that Livingston violated Rules 1.3, 1.4, and 9.3 of the Georgia Rules of Professional Conduct, as incorporated in Bar Rule 4-102(d).
3. A one-year suspension from the practice of law was the appropriate sanction for Livingston's violations.

Questions Presented

1. Whether Livingston's failure to reject the Notice of Discipline resulted in default and waiver of an evidentiary hearing.
2. Whether the admitted facts established violations of Rules 1.3, 1.4, and 9.3 of the Georgia Rules of Professional Conduct.
3. What disciplinary sanction was appropriate for the established violations.

Disposition

other