Digest.ph

This case involves an administrative complaint filed by Helen Chang against Attorney Jose R. Hidalgo for his failure to handle her collection cases and for withdrawing from the cases without notice or consent. Chang alleged that despite paying Attorney Hidalgo a total of P61,500.00 in attorney's fees, he did not attend any of the hearings and instead sent another lawyer without her consent. The cases were subsequently dismissed. The Integrated Bar of the Philippines found Attorney Hidalgo guilty of gross misconduct and recommended a two-year suspension from the practice of law. The Board of Governors of the Integrated Bar of the Philippines modified the recommendation to a one-year suspension and ordered Attorney Hidalgo to return the amount of P61,000.00 to Chang. Attorney Hidalgo filed a motion for reconsideration, but it was denied. The Supreme Court upheld the findings of the Integrated Bar of the Philippines and imposed a one-year suspension on Attorney Hidalgo, with a warning of a more severe penalty for any repetition of similar acts. Attorney Hidalgo was also ordered to return the amount of P61,500.00 to Chang, with interest at 6% per annum.

A lawyer owes fidelity to the cause of his or her client and must be mindful of the trust and confidence reposed in him or her. A lawyer is expected to serve the client with competence and diligence. Neglecting a legal matter entrusted to a lawyer renders the lawyer liable. A lawyer cannot withdraw from a case without notice to the client and complying with the requirements under Rule 138, Section 26 of the Rules of Court. Violations of these duties constitute a violation of Canons 17 and 18 of the Code of Professional Responsibility.