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Thomas G. Krilich (WSBA No. 2973, admitted 1967), of Tacoma, has been ordered reprimanded and placed on probation for three years, pursuant to a stipulation for discipline approved by the Disciplinary Board on January 27, 1998. The discipline is based on Krilich’s failure to diligently pursue a client’s matter, in violation of RPC 1.3, and failure to keep the client informed of the status of the matter, in violation of RPC 1.4(a).
In November 1993, Krilich agreed to represent a corporation in the collection of a judgment. He took some initial action shortly after being hired. The client made several attempts to reach him by phone in the first half of 1994. He did not answer or return the telephone calls. In May and June 1994, the client wrote him letters inquiring as to the status of his efforts to collect the judgment. In August 1994, he responded by letter to the client’s inquiries. In May and August 1995, the client sent registered letters to him requesting an update on his efforts to collect the judgment. Krilich failed to proceed against the debtor corporation and did not have any further communication with his client after his letter in August 1994.
The discipline is based on the aggravating factor that Krilich received a reprimand and censure in 1994 for violations of RPC 1.3 and 1.4(a). The conduct is mitigated by the fact that the client suffered no actual injury, and any potential injury was remote and speculative. Krilich has been placed on a three-year period of probation during which he must meet with a practice monitor to ensure that he timely prosecutes client matters and keeps clients reasonably informed about the status of their matters.
Brian A. Putra represented the respondent. Disciplinary Counsel Sachia I. Stonefeld represented the Association.
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