Douglas L. Leppanen

Failed to represent the best interest of a child while acting as an adolescent child’s attorney. He ignored business documents such as police reports, court records and his client’s own words. The weak support offered for this and limiting travel was ADHD. A knowledgeable professional would have a...t least consulted with a physician to obtain support for statements regarding a common medical diagnosis and its potential impact. A final recommendation letter submitted did not use the best words "best interest of the child" even once. Letters drafted offered several reminders about the interests of the Respondent. The client being represented expressed frustration frequently about not being listened to or having contact returned. Also that despite frequent requests that he speak with her witnesses (teachers, etc.), no follow up was ever initiated. Others on the witness list submitted to this attorney were never contacted. Instead these individuals left voice mails for this attorney until he contacted them. This was done with knowledge that the client was looking for consistent follow through and promises kept due to trust issues. I had to vigorously pursue case updates through frequent, sometimes daily calls and emails to obtain even a very brief case update. I had to offer frequent reminders about follow through steps the attorney stated he would take, some of which were never completed even though I did some of the leg work for him. All in all, expect poor communication, scattered focus, poor organization, and very poor follow through.