David Leslie Schaefer

Findings — machine-extracted (anthropic-batch:claude-opus-4-8); verify against the decision

Respondent David Leslie Schaefer, called in 1985, admitted under Rule 4-29 to multiple allegations of professional misconduct arising from a series of dealings with his long-time client RM between 2007 and 2022. He acted in conflicts of interest by having RM purchase a property (Lot 14) he himself wanted, by arranging an RRSP-funded mortgage to RM from which he obtained an advantage and borrowed funds back, by filing a misleading Form B, by making false/misleading representations to Canadian Western Trust, and by ultimately purchasing the property from RM at below-market value without ensuring fairness or independent legal representation. The conduct was admitted as professional misconduct/conduct unbecoming; the tribunal documents use 'knew or ought to have known' language and did not make an express finding of dishonesty. He undertook not to practise law for five years and is treated as having ceased membership as a result of disciplinary proceedings. No fine or costs were stated.

Duties found breached:

• Handle inadvertently received material
• No improper use of client money
• No own-interest conflict
• Proper basis for allegations
• Protect capacity and vulnerable clients