Preview:

1/9/2009 "See News Release 001 for any Concurrences and/or Dissents."

SUPREME COURT OF LOUISIANA NO. 08-B-2294 IN RE: DAVID P. LaNASA

ATTORNEY DISCIPLINARY PROCEEDINGS

PER CURIAM
This disciplinary matter arises from formal charges filed by the Office of Disciplinary Counsel ("ODC") against respondent, David P. LaNasa, a suspended attorney.

UNDERLYING FACTS In 1993, respondent was suspended from the practice of law for two years after he used client funds without authorization and made false statements on his application to the Mississippi Board of Bar Admissions. In re: LaNasa, 625 So. 2d 1337 (La. 1993). He never applied for reinstatement from this suspension. Thus, he remains suspended from the practice of law. Nevertheless, in 2004, respondent represented Matthew Russell on criminal charges. He made two appearances in Orleans Parish Criminal District Court and attempted to negotiate a plea agreement on Mr. Russell's behalf.

DISCIPLINARY PROCEEDINGS In August 2005, the ODC filed one count of formal charges against respondent, alleging that his conduct violated Rule 5.5(a) (engaging in the unauthorized practice of law) of the Rules of Professional Conduct. The formal charges were served upon respondent by certified mail delivered on August 12, 2005.

Respondent did not file an answer to the formal charges. Accordingly, the factual allegations contained therein were deemed admitted and proven by clear and convincing evidence, pursuant to Supreme Court Rule XIX,

Download 2008-B-2294 IN RE: DAVID P. LANASA.pdf

Louisiana Law