The People of the State of Colorado v. William D Bontrager

Summary

The Hearing Board found that Respondent incompetently represented five clients and advanced frivolous claims in several oil-and-gas matters, violating professional-conduct rules concerning competence, frivolous litigation, communication, and prejudice to the administration of justice. The findings rested on Respondent’s failure to research controlling legal principles, investigate factual support, comply with procedural rules, and reassess claims after adverse rulings and contrary evidence. The visible text states that the misconduct warranted a nine-month suspension and restitution, but the opinion is truncated before the final disposition.