In re Crittenden

Summary

The Louisiana Supreme Court considered disciplinary charges against Walter J. Crittenden, who accepted a legal fee and handled a criminal matter while suspended from practicing law. The court found violations including unauthorized practice, failure to communicate and account for fees, and failure to cooperate with the disciplinary investigation. In light of his misconduct and extensive disciplinary history, the court ordered permanent disbarment and prohibited his readmission to practice law in Louisiana.

Holdings

1. The formal charges were proven by clear and convincing evidence because respondent failed to answer or otherwise reply, causing the factual allegations to be deemed admitted under Supreme Court Rule XIX, § 11(E)(3).
2. Permanent disbarment was warranted because respondent intentionally practiced law while suspended, conduct falling within Guideline 8 of Appendix E to Supreme Court Rule XIX, and his lengthy disciplinary record demonstrated that he lacked the moral fitness to practice law in Louisiana.

Questions Presented

1. Whether the formal charges were proven by clear and convincing evidence when respondent failed to answer and the allegations were deemed admitted.
2. Whether respondent's unauthorized practice of law while suspended, combined with his extensive disciplinary history and related misconduct, warranted permanent disbarment rather than ordinary disbarment.

Disposition

other