In the Matter of Bruce A. Lambka

Summary

The Indiana Supreme Court found that Bruce A. Lambka violated Indiana Professional Conduct Rules 1.3 and 8.4(d) by failing to act diligently and engaging in conduct prejudicial to the administration of justice while representing a client. The Court suspended him from practice for at least one year and six months without automatic reinstatement, assessed costs, and imposed reinstatement conditions.

Holdings

1. Respondent violated Rule 1.3 by failing to communicate with his client, failing to appear and protect the client's interests in the underlying litigation, and failing to take corrective action after the default judgment was entered.
2. Respondent violated Rule 8.4(d) by engaging in conduct prejudicial to the administration of justice.
3. Respondent was suspended from the practice of law for at least one year and six months, without automatic reinstatement, and was assessed the costs of the proceeding.

Questions Presented

1. Whether Respondent violated Indiana Professional Conduct Rule 1.3 by failing to act with reasonable diligence and promptness.
2. Whether Respondent violated Indiana Professional Conduct Rule 8.4(d) by engaging in conduct prejudicial to the administration of justice.
3. What discipline was appropriate in light of the misconduct and the aggravating circumstances.

Disposition

other