Monday, October 17, 2011

Iowa Lawyer Suspended for 30 Days for Missing Deadlines

The Iowa Supreme Court suspended a Cedar Rapids lawyer Friday from practicing law for 30 days because he violated the rules of professional conduct.

Thomas Ochs repeatedly missed deadlines for filings in probate, estate, conservatorships and guardianships over the past eight years, according to the ruling. Two of the cases were left open for more than seven years, while other estates were open for four and five years.

Ochs repeatedly received inquiries from the court’s Attorney Disciplinary Board regarding his actions but he ignored them, according to the ruling. Ochs also received a private admonishing from the board in one case.

At the hearing, Ochs admitted to all the allegations in the board’s 10 count complaint, according to the ruling.

“He offered no excuses and expressed determination to change his delinquent conduct,” the court stated.

Ochs’ license to practice will be reinstated after 30 days unless the disciplinary board objects at that time, according to the ruling.

Full Article and Source:
Iowa Supreme Court Suspends CR Lawyer's License for 30 Days

2 comments:

Norma said...

It doesn't seem like enough, but still it's some type of penalty so we'll take it.

Chris said...

How many cases did he harm becuase he delayed and ignored? I agree, Norma, at least 30 days is something, but if a non-lawyer had done the same deeds, he/she would have gotten alot more than 30 days.