People v. Lawrence, 04PDJ041 (consolidated with 04PDJ059). April 4, 2005. Attorney Regulation. The Presiding Disciplinary Judge approved the parties’ Conditional Admission of Misconduct and suspended Respondent Michael R. Lawrence (Registration No. 24958) from the practice of law for a period of one year and one day, effective May 5, 2005. The entire suspension is stayed pending successful completion of a two-year period of probation. The proceeding arises out of Respondent’s representation in four separate civil matters. In each of these matters, Respondent failed to communicate with clients and others involved, failed to file required items with the court (e.g. responses to motions, discovery disclosures, case management orders), failed to appear in court, failed to give notice of withdrawal, and otherwise failed to take appropriate steps to protect his clients’ rights. His actions have resulted in the entry of sanctions against his clients and himself. In one case in which Respondent became personally liable, he did not answer post-judgment interrogatories and did not appear on contempt citation. Thus, Respondent violated Colo. RPC 1.3 (neglect of an entrusted legal matter), 1.4(a) (failure to communicate and failure to keep client reasonably informed), 1.4(b) (failure to explain matters to permit informed decisions), 3.4(c) (knowing disobedience of an obligation under the rules of a tribunal), and 8.4(d) (conduct prejudicial to the administration of justice). Most of these incidents occurred after Respondent left a firm and began representing clients on his own while clerking for Judge Frank Martinez. Conditions of probation include a practice monitor and payment of restitution. Respondent was also ordered to pay the costs incurred in conjunction with this proceeding.