John Davis

Informal Admonition (October 21, 2015)

Summary: Bar Counsel issued Davis an informal admonition. While representing clients in three independent matters, Davis violated multiple Rules of Professional Conduct. Specifically, while representing a client in her efforts to resolve her unfavorable employment situation, Davis failed to explain the matter to the extent reasonably necessary to permit the client to make informed decisions regarding the representation and failed to put the basis or rate of the fee in writing. Rules 1.4(b) and 1.5(b). While representing a client in a District of Columbia Superior Court civil case, Davis failed to provide competent representation, failed to represent the client with diligence and zeal, and engaged in conduct that seriously interfered with the administration of justice. Rules 1.1(a), 1.1(b), 1.3(a), 1.3(c), and 8.4(d). While representing a client in multiple matters against his employer intermittently from 2009 through early 2015, Davis failed to represent the client with diligence and zeal and failed to explain the matter to the extent reasonably necessary to permit the client to make informed decisions regarding the representation. Rules 1.3(a), 1.3(c), and 1.4(b).