Citrus Hts, CA 95611-3231
15 May 2015 | Active (8 years, 10 months ago) |
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30 June 2014 | Not eligible to practice law in CA (9 years, 9 months ago) Suspended, failed to pass Prof.Resp.Exam 10-O-09003 |
26 March 2013 | Active (11 years ago) |
24 February 2013 | Not eligible to practice law in CA (11 years, 1 month ago) Discipline w/actual suspension 10-O-09003 |
6 June 1989 | Admitted to the State Bar of California (34 years, 10 months ago) |
February 24, 2013 WILLIAM CALLAHAM SEIFFERT [#140291], 59, of Citrus Heights was suspended for two years, placed on two years of probation with a 30-day actual suspension and he was ordered to take the MPRE. The order took effect Feb. 24, 2013. Seiffert stipulated to six counts of misconduct in two divorce cases.In the first, he was hired to file a motion to set aside a default entered against his client, the husband, who paid a $3,000 advance fee. When the couple reconciled, the husband sent Seiffert six letters seeking a refund of unearned fees. More than a year later, after the State Bar began an investigation, Seiffert refunded the unearned portion, $1,142.50.In the second matter, he filed a divorce petition for a client who paid a $2,500 advance fee. He did not consult with his client when a settlement agreement was reached, nor did he prepare an agreement, despite telling the opposing counsel he would do so. The opposing party died, and Seiffert’s client left him numerous messages requesting an update, trying to ascertain if she was a widow or a divorcee. He did not respond.Seiffert stipulated that he failed to perform legal services competently, keep a client informed of significant developments, cooperate with the bar’s investigation, account for client funds or refund unearned fees.In mitigation, he had no prior discipline record, cooperated with the bar’s investigation and experienced financial stress after losing his job and his home. |