FINAL NOTICE OF SUSPENSION Case Nos. 04-127-GA; 04-140-FA Notice Issued: February 11, 2005 Dwight Teachworth, P 25954, Bingham Farms, Michigan, by the Attorney Discipline Board Tri-County Hearing Panel #85
1. Suspension - 3 Years 2. Effective January 8, 2005 The respondent was found to be in default for his failure to file an answer to the formal complaint and failure to appear at the public hearing. Based on his default, the panel found that respondent neglected two legal matters; failed to seek the lawful objectives of his clients through reasonably available means permitted by law; failed to act with reasonable diligence and promptness in representing his clients; failed to keep his clients informed about the status of their matters; failed to explain the matter to the extent reasonably necessary to permit his clients to make informed decisions regarding their representation. In one of these matters, respondent failed to promptly refund an unearned fee. In the second matter, respondent knowingly made false statements to his client regarding actions he was taking on her behalf. Respondent was also found to have made a knowing misrepresentation in his answer to a request for investigation; and failed to respond to lawful demand for information from the Grievance Administrator.
Respondent=s conduct was in violation of MCR 9.104(A)(2),(3) and (6); MCR 9.113(A); and Michigan Rules of Professional Conduct 1.1(c) 1.2(a); 1.3; 1.4(a) and (b); 1.5(a); 1.16(d); 8.1(a)(2); and8.4(b). The hearing panel ordered that respondent=s license be suspended for three years and that he pay costs in the amount of $1,827.41.
The Grievance Administrator filed a motion for reconsideration, seeking restitution, which was denied by the panel on January 20, 2005.