Counsel

The Complaints Authorization Committee counselled a member that the member’s conduct does not comply with the standard of conduct with respect to Chapter 7, rules 7.2-1 and 7.2-5, of the Code of Professional Conduct. The member was counselled that where the member is unable to respond to communications for an extended period of time, the member should make reasonable efforts to ensure that clients and opposing counsel are reasonably informed of the delay. This could be accomplished by making arrangements for an out of office reply, for someone else to monitor emails or for someone else to respond to emails.

Caution

The Complaints Authorization Committee cautioned a member that the member’s conduct does not comply with the standard of conduct with respect to Law Society Rule 9.43 and Chapter 7, rule 7.1-1, of the Code of Professional Conduct. The member was cautioned that the member ought to be aware of the content of the Act, Rules and Code that govern members of the Law Society. Ignorance of the content does not excuse a failure to report an outstanding judgment against a member. Further, the member is reminded that members must respond promptly and completely to correspondence from the Law Society. Being less than candid does not equate to responding completely.