High court suspends lawyer
Las Vegas lawyer Darren Walker has received a 40-month suspension for engaging in the unauthorized practice of law and for not responding to a formal complaint filed against him by the State Bar of Nevada.
The Nevada Supreme Court determined Walker's punishment after reviewing the recommendation of a Southern Nevada Disciplinary Board hearing panel, which proposed a 30-month suspension.
"Having reviewed the record, we conclude that discipline greater than that recommended by the disciplinary panel is appropriate," according to the court's order. "Walker has exhibited an appalling disregard for the disciplinary process and has abandoned his responsibilities as a member of the Nevada State Bar."
The order was filed Feb. 5. Attempts to get Walker's comments were unsuccessful.
Walker, 41, has been licensed to practice law in Nevada since 2005.
Before seeking reinstatement, the Supreme Court ruled, he must pay $5,900 in restitution to two divorce clients and again pass the Nevada bar exam. He also must pay the State Bar's costs in the disciplinary matter.
Walker was suspended in 2007 for failing to pay his bar dues and for failing to maintain his continuing legal education requirements. While he was suspended, a fellow attorney reported that he was continuing to practice law.
Contact reporter Carri Geer Thevenot at cgeer@reviewjournal.com or 702-380-8135.
