On Thursday, June 20, 2024, the Supreme Court of New Jersey suspended attorney Joan Othelia Pinnock for three years for violations of numerous Rules of Professional Conduct.
The case is entitled “In the Matter of Joan Oathelia Pinnock,” with case no. 089375.
The charges cited New Jersey Rules of Professional Conduct 1.1(a), 1.3, 1.4(b), 1.5(b), 1.15(d), 1.16(a)(1), 1.16(d), and 5.5(a)(1).
According to a Letter Decision from the Disciplinary Review Board, Pinnock had a history of prior discipline for mishandling client matters. In 2013, she received a reprimand for mishandling one client case. In January 2019, she was suspended for three months for mishandling nine client matters.
Despite her suspension, Pinnock continued to practice law. She failed to notify the courts and government agencies of her suspension as required. She also represented eight new clients in immigration matters while suspended. Court documents state Pinnock neglected client cases, failed to communicate with clients about the status of their matters, and falsely claimed to be a lawyer in good standing. Three clients had to find new attorneys to handle their neglected immigration cases.
The Disciplinary Review Board determined Pinnock violated rules regarding competence, diligence, communication with clients, fees, withdrawal from representation, and unauthorized practice of law. However, the Board dismissed an allegation regarding financial recordkeeping due to lack of specificity. Considering aggravating factors such as Pinnock’s prior discipline and the vulnerability of immigration clients, the Board recommended a three-year suspension.
In a June 20, 2024 Order, the New Jersey Supreme Court suspended Pinnock for three years effective immediately. The suspension was in addition to her ongoing suspensions from January 2019. The Court ordered Pinnock to refund $1,000 to one client within 90 days.
The Disposition states:
“It is ORDERED that Joan Othelia Pinnock is hereby suspended for a period of three years, and until further order of the Court, effective immediately.”
According to avvo.com, Ms. Pinnock is an immigration attorney in Newark, New Jersey. She attended the New England School of Law. She acquired her law license in New Jersey in 1997.
A copy of the original filing can be found here.
