Lawyer Misconduct Reporting Guide

Summary

A lawyer should not plead guilty on behalf of a client without explicit consent. If your nephews lawyer did so, he can challenge it. Proof that the victim contacted him first could affect the case. If the lawyer has a history of misconduct, report it to the Iowa State Bar Association. This generally shouldnt negatively impact your nephews case, but seeking new legal representation is advisable.

Full Conversation

My nephew was supposed to have court this afternoon for violating a no contact order which his court appointed lawyer plead guilty for him without his knowledge and now has to serve 14 days house arrest, is that right the lawyer did that
Hello Karri,
Normally, a lawyer should never plead guilty on behalf of a client without their explicit consent. However, we need to know your nephew's location to provide more specific information. Could you please provide it?
Iowa
Hello Karri,
In Iowa:
- Lawyers must receive explicit consent before pleading guilty.
- Your nephew can challenge this if he didn't consent.
I suggest contacting Iowa State Bar Association for advice.
What if my nephew had proof the victim contacted him first would that make any difference
Hello Karri,
In Iowa, if your nephew can prove that the victim contacted him first, it could potentially affect the case. However, he should discuss this with his lawyer or seek advice from the Iowa State Bar Association.
He did tell his lawyer but the lawyer said it didn't matter
Hello Karri,
In Iowa, communication details may affect the court's decision. If the lawyer isn't considering this, your nephew might want to:
- Consult another lawyer
- Contact the Iowa State Bar Association for guidance.
I was just wondering because this has a record of being in trouble many times
Hello Karri, are you asking if your nephew's past record could impact the current legal situation he is facing in Iowa?
No, I was talking about the lawyer
Hello Karri, do you mean the lawyer has a past record of misconduct or legal trouble?
Yes
Hello Karri, if you suspect the lawyer has a history of misconduct, you can report it to the Iowa State Bar Association. They can investigate and take appropriate action. Do you need their contact information?
Idk
Hello Karri, it's completely your decision. If you need it, please let me know. We're here to help.
Do I just contact the Iowa State bar
Yes, Karri. You can contact the Iowa State Bar Association to report the lawyer. They will guide you through the process.
Ok

Iowa State Bar Association


Phone: (*) *-*
Address: * East Court Avenue, Des Moines, IA *
Website: www.iowabar.org
This will have no negative impact on my nephew right
Hello Karri,
Reporting a lawyer's misconduct to the Iowa State Bar Association generally shouldn't have a negative impact on your nephew's case. However, it might be advisable for him to seek new legal representation.