02.05.2014 Consent Order of Discipline [Robeson County]
Photo Courtesy of the North Carolina State Bar
Gregory A. Bullard was the subject of a random audit in January of 2011. The audit revealed multiple deficiencies in Mr. Bullard’s trust account recordkeeping. There was also a balance exceeding $20,000 for which Bullard could not identify the beneficial owner. Bullard was given multiple opportunities to cure the defects but did not do so. Subsequently, Bullard signed a contract with the State Bar’s Trust Account Compliance Program. His failure to fulfill his obligations under that program, however, prompted the State Bar to open a grievance.
The hearing panel concluded that the deficiencies in Bullard’s recordkeeping constituted multiple violations of Rule 1.15-3 of the North Carolina Rules of Professional Conduct. Rule 1.15-3 provides specific rules that North Carolina attorneys must follow regarding records and accountings of the client trust account. Additionally, Bullard violated Rule 8.1(b) by failing to respond to various TACP requests. In light of these violations, the hearing panel entered a two-year suspension. The suspension was stayed for five years, however, contingent on Bullard’s compliance with various conditions, including retention of a CPA.
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