In re Complaint as to the Conduct of Dickinson

The Board of Governors of the Oregon State Bar found the accused guilty of professional misconduct. The trial committee and a majority of the Board have recommended a public reprimand. The accused has not petitioned this court for a review of the Board’s recommendation and the matter is now before us for a final determination.

The important facts are not in doubt. The accused had represented a Mr. Layton in a personal injury matter and obtained a settlement of $3,000. When the proceeds of the settlement were disbursed, accused retained, in the form of a check made out to his order, an amount…