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Board of Overseers of the Bar v. Louise A. Klaila
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Docket No.: BAR-18-6
Issued by: Maine Supreme Judicial Court
Date: July 2, 2018
Respondent: Louise A. Klaila
Bar Number: 007264
Order: Suspension
Disposition/Conduct: Reciprocal Discipline
M. Bar R. 26(e)
Louise A. Klaila was admitted to the Maine bar in 1990. In October 2009, Ms. Klaila became administratively suspended due to her failure to timely renew her licensure and pay the required fees/assessments. Prior to her suspension, Ms. Klaila was registered with the Maine Board of Overseers of the Bar (the Board) as a non-resident active attorney.
In May 2018, the Board received certified confirmation that the Louisiana Supreme Court issued a March 23, 2018 Suspension Order against Ms. Klaila. The Court's imposition of a one year and one day suspension was based upon Ms. Klaila's violations of L. R. Prof. Conduct 1.3; 1.4; 1.5; 1.15; 3.2; 8.1(c); and 8.4(a). That suspension became effective March 23, 2018.
The Court notes that Ms. Klaila's professional conduct violations included her commingling and converting client funds; neglecting her client's matter; failing to communicate with her client; failing to return unearned fees; failing to advance her client's legal matter; and knowingly, if not intentionally, failing to timely respond and cooperate with the Louisiana Office of Disciplinary Counsel. In Maine, Ms. Klaila's misconduct would constitute analogous violations of M. R. Prof. Conduct 1.3; 1.4; 1.5; 1.15; 3.2; and 8.4(a).
Based upon the above rule violations, the Court finds that reciprocal discipline in Maine is warranted. Accordingly. the Court ORDERS that Louise A. Klaila is now suspended from the practice of law in Maine for one year and one day. and she may not return to practicing law in Maine until such time as her Petition for Reinstatement is granted.
Dated: July 2, 2018
Ellen A. Gorman
Associate Justice
Maine Supreme Judicial Court
