In 1995, the respondent received an admonition for, among other misconduct, neglect of an underinsured motorist claim. In connection with that admonition, the respondent agreed with the client to continue representing her for the purposes of resolving the still outstanding underinsurance claim. Thereafter, between 1995 and 1999, the respondent failed to respond to many of the client’s communications. Also, following unsuccessful demands that the insurer arbitrate the claim in 1997 and 1998, the respondent failed to file a lawsuit against the insurer. In June of 1999, the client discharged the respondent and retained successor counsel.
The respondent’s delay of over four years in prosecuting the client’s underinsurance claim, after having received an admonition for neglect in this same matter, violated Mass. R. Prof. C. 1.3 and Canon Six, DR6-101(A)(3). The respondent’s failure to respond timely to the client’s inquiries concerning her underinsured motorist claim violated Mass. R. Prof. C. 1.4.
The respondent received a public reprimand for the above violations.
