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Steven J. Thomas (WSBA No. 20076, admitted 1990), of Enumclaw, was suspended for ninety days by order of the Supreme Court following a hearing, effective February 10, 2003. This discipline is based on his continuing to practice of law during an administrative license suspension during 1999.
In May 1998, the Washington State Bar Association (WSBA) notified Mr. Thomas that it had not received his required mandatory continuing legal education (MCLE) report for 1995 through 1997, which was due December 31, 1997. On January 6, 1999, after granting two extensions, WSBA notified Mr. Thomas that it had not received his MCLE report or the $450 late filing fee. The letter also indicated that if Mr. Thomas did not comply by January 18, 1999, he would be considered for suspension. The Supreme Court suspended Mr. Thomas’ license on February 11, 1999. On March 25, Mr. Thomas spoke with a WSBA employee. He told her that he knew about his suspension, but that he was not going to stop practicing. The Supreme Court reinstated Mr. Thomas’ license on May 5, 1999.
During his suspension, Mr. Thomas continued to practice law, representing clients in Washington State Courts.
Mr. Thomas’ conduct violated RPCs 5.5(a), prohibiting lawyers from practicing in jurisdictions in which doing so violates the regulations of the legal profession; 1.15, requiring lawyers to withdraw from representation when to continue would violate the RPCs; 8.4(d), prohibiting lawyers from engaging in conduct prejudicial to the administration of justice; and RLD 8.2, prohibiting suspended lawyers from continuing to practice law.
Timothy Whitters and Joanne Abelson represented the Bar Association. David Butler represented Mr. Thomas through a portion of the proceedings. Mr. Thomas represented himself through a portion of the proceedings. J.C. Becker was the Hearing Officer. |