Flashcards Studio

During a civil action pending in the Regional Trial Court, Attorney V represents Client Q. To influence a favorable ruling on a pending motion for summary judgment, Attorney V uses a court staffer to create a fictitious docket entry indicating that service of the motion was accomplished on a date that never occurred, and the pleadings show compliance with service. A colleague notices the irregularity and reports it to the presiding judge, who orders an investigation and refers the matter to the Supreme Court for disciplinary action. (a) Identify the controlling Rule of Court that governs disciplinary actions against attorneys, and the grounds most likely invoked by the Court in this fact pattern. (b) Discuss whether Attorney V’s conduct constitutes grounds for disbarment or suspension, explaining the elements of deceit or misrepresentation in pleadings and conduct prejudicial to the integrity of the judiciary under Rule 139-B. (c) Outline the procedural steps and remedies available to the Court, and the effect on the case and third parties if Attorney V is disbarred or suspended.