Legal Question in Family Law in Oregon

Re: Unethical Family Lawyer

The actions of the lawyer, as you are presenting them, are not only unethical, but also amounts to blackmail as well as a criminal offense (violation of the statutory duty to report abuse).

I am flabbergasted, appalled (and find it difficult to believe) that a lawyer had the audacity and stupidity to write you the letter you describe. It is disgusting and disappointing to hear of such tactics being used by and Oregon lawyer.

I would not yield to such action on the part of the attorney. Indeed, I would not reply to the letter. My response would be one of TOTAL SILENCE. I would not even acknowledge to the attorney) or your ex-husband, that you received the letter.

(Besides, even if you were to yield to such blackmail and agree to a change of custody, what's to prevent the lawyer from thereafter filing his "mandatory abuse report" even though he "promised" that he would not do so?)

Has your ex-husband filed a motion with the court asking for a change of custody? If so, in what county? If a change-of-custody motion is now pending, and you ex-husband is being represented by a lawyer, you would be well-advised to obtain the services of a lawyer to represent you.

Finally, I would make a copy of the lawyer�s letter and send it, together with your question as to whether this type of tactic and conduct on the part of a lawyer is ethical, to:

Oregon State Bar, Client Assistance Office, PO Box 231935, Tigard, OR 97281.

Lastly, I would be most curious as to exactly what the laweyr�s letter said, as well as who wrote. I invite you to send or fax a copy to me, and would be appreciative if would do so. Thank you.

LAWRENCE D. GORIN

http://www.divorcesource.com/OR/pages/ldgorin.html

Law Offices of L.D. Gorin

521 S.W. Clay St., Suite 205

Portland, Oregon 97201

Telephone: 503.224.8884

Fax: 503.226.1321

E-mail: [email protected]