Matter of Reed

The Respondent, Melvin Reed, was charged in a complaint for disciplinary action with violations of Rules 1.7(b), 1.8(a), 1.8(h) and 1.8(e) of the Rules of Professional Conduct for Attorneys at Law. The charge stemmed from Respondent's representation of a client in a claim arising out of an automobile accident.

The hearing officer appointed in this matter held a hearing and tendered his Findings and Conclusions, and the case is now before this court for final determination. Although Respondent received notice of the hearing, he failed to appear or to challenge the hearing officer's report.…