| Description: |
Mary E. Reeves (WSBA No. 17721, admitted 1988), of Vashon, received a reprimand effective June 29, 2004, following a hearing. This discipline is based on her conduct in 2001, involving making a statement that could have been misleading in a public-defense matter.
In January 2001, Ms. Reeves was assigned to represent a criminal defendant. In March 2001, the client entered guilty pleas to two charges. Ms. Reeves believed her client might have mental problems, and she wanted to obtain a mental evaluation for him. While the case was set for sentencing, an assistant prepared the necessary paperwork for appointment of the expert at public expense. Ms. Reeves signed the paperwork and wrote in that the case was set for trial. Ms. Reeves knew this statement was not true. The paperwork was forwarded to the administrator of the Office of the Public Defender. Prior to any decision, and for other reasons, the paperwork was withdrawn. At a later time, substitute counsel re-submitted the request with the correct status and the request was granted.
Ms. Reeves' conduct violated RPCs 8.4(c), prohibiting conduct involving dishonesty, fraud, deceit, or misrepresentation; and 8.4(d), prohibiting conduct prejudicial to the administration of justice.
Leslie Ching Allen represented the Bar Association. Kurt Bulmer represented Ms. Reeves. Geoffrey G. Revelle was the hearing officer. |