J. Vernon (Jonathan) Ricketts

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

The Attorney was retained to obtain subdivision approval, splinter titles, and transfer nine lots to purchasers. By February 2003 he had received $2,077,810.00 for stamp duty, registration fees and costs, but failed for over three years to effect any transfers, to account for the funds, or to hand over the monies and files to the clients' new attorneys despite repeated written and verbal requests. The Committee found him guilty of professional misconduct and ordered him struck off, with restitution and costs.

Duties found breached:

• No conflict between current clients
• No taking unfair advantage
• Prompt accounting and return of money
• Uphold public trust in the profession

Aggravating factors:

• Large sum ($2,077,810) held for over three years impressed with a trust and not used for its intended purpose
• Repeated failure to respond to clients and to attend/postponed meetings
• Failure to comply with written and verbal instructions to hand over monies and files
• Severe embarrassment caused to the complainants
• Failed to take advantage of multiple adjournments to respond or make good