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Clayton E. Longacre (WSBA No. 21821, admitted 1992), of Port Orchard, was ordered by a hearing officer to receive a reprimand on January 20, 2010. This discipline was based on conduct prejudicial to the administration of justice.
On April 2, 2007, Mr. Longacre filed a notice of appearance in municipal court on behalf of a defendant whom he represented on a charge of driving under the influence. On July 5, 2007, Mr. Longacre appeared in court and entered a deferred prosecution on behalf of the defendant. The defendant was summoned to appear for a review hearing on October 11, 2007. Mr. Longacre was notified by mail of the new court date, but did not appear. The court continued the matter six more times. Each time, Mr. Longacre was notified by mail of the new court date. Each time, Mr. Longacre failed to attend the defendant’s court hearing. Mr. Longacre did not file a Notice of Withdrawal or Motion to Withdraw in the defendant’s matter, and did not inform the court that he no longer represented the defendant.
Mr. Longacre’s conduct violated RPC 8.4(d), prohibiting a lawyer from engaging in conduct that is prejudicial to the administration of justice.
Erica W. Temple represented the Bar Association. Mr. Longacre represented himself. Dennis Smith was the hearing officer.
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