Bach v. State Bar of California

Bach (defendant) was retained in 1984 by Barbara Hester for a divorce and paid a $3,000 retainer. He then failed to communicate with her despite numerous calls and office visits, claimed he had withdrawn, and never returned the unused retainer. Hester complained to the State Bar (plaintiff), which sent Bach two letters he did not answer before issuing a notice to show cause. After hearings, a referee found Bach repeatedly failed to communicate with and competently represent his client and recommended discipline. The Review Department agreed, and Bach appealed to the California Supreme Court.

Whether the suspension of an attorney is appropriate in an extreme case of failure to communicate with a client.