Columbus Bar Ass'n v. Thomas

{¶ 1} On February 14, 2005, relator, Columbus Bar Association, filed a two-count complaint alleging that respondent, William Thomas of Columbus, Ohio, had engaged in the unauthorized practice of law by independently representing clients while employed as attorney James E.L. Watson’s legal assistant.

{¶ 2} Respondent was served with the complaint but did not answer, and relator filed a motion for default pursuant to Gov.Bar R. VII(7)(B). A panel of the Board on the Unauthorized Practice of Law granted the motion and made findings of fact, conclusions of law, and a recommendation, which the…