Kentucky Bar Association v. Koury

Summary

The Supreme Court of Kentucky adjudicated Jamal A. Koury guilty of multiple professional-conduct violations arising from his failure to diligently represent and communicate with a client and to refund an unearned retainer. The court imposed a one-year suspension consecutive to a previously ordered 181-day suspension, and ordered restitution, client-notification measures, and payment of disciplinary costs.

Holdings

1. Koury was adjudicated guilty of violating SCR 3.130-1.3, SCR 3.130-1.4(a), SCR 3.130-1.16(d), and SCR 3.130-8.4(c).
2. A one-year suspension from the practice of law, running consecutively to Koury's previously imposed 181-day suspension, was imposed.
3. Koury was ordered to notify courts and active clients of his inability to continue representation, provide copies of the notices to the KBA Director, cease advertising to the extent possible, pay Kelso $1,500 in restitution, and pay $386.85 in disciplinary costs.

Questions Presented

1. Whether Koury violated the Kentucky Rules of Professional Conduct provisions governing reasonable diligence, client communication, protection of a client's interests upon termination, and dishonesty.
2. Whether a one-year suspension consecutive to Koury's existing 181-day suspension was an appropriate sanction.
3. Whether Koury should be ordered to provide client and court notifications, cease advertising, pay restitution, and pay the costs of the disciplinary proceedings.

Disposition

other