Discipline Notice - Donna L. Johnston

License Number: 23630
Member Name: Donna L. Johnston
Discipline Detail
Action: Suspension
Effective Date: 6/30/2021
RPC: 1.3 - Diligence
1.4 - Communication
3.3 - Candor Toward the Tribunal
Discipline Notice: Order Approving Stipulation
Stipulation
Supreme Court Order
Description: Donna L. Johnston (WSBA No. 23630, admitted 1994) of Renton, was suspended for nine months, effective 6/30/2021, by order of the Washington Supreme Court. The lawyer’s conduct violated the following Rules of Professional Conduct: 1.3 (Diligence), 1.4 (Communication), 3.3 (Candor Toward the Tribunal), 8.4(c) (Dishonesty, Fraud, Deceit or Misrepresentation), 8.4(d) (Prejudicial to the Admin of Justice).

In relation to her representation of client A in a criminal matter, and client B in a personal injury matter, Johnston stipulated to suspension for: 1) failing to appear at one or more of client A’s court hearings; 2) making misrepresentations to the court and to client A; 3) failing to communicate with client B; and 4) failing to promptly finalize the settlement of client B’s matter.

Henry Cruz and Francesca D’Angelo acted as disciplinary counsel. Anne I. Seidel represented Respondent. Timothy Michael Moran was the hearing officer. Bradley R. Duncan was the settlement hearing officer. The online version of Washington State Bar News contains links to the following documents: Disciplinary Board Order Approving Stipulation to Suspension; Stipulation to Suspension; and Washington Supreme Court Order.


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