Tri-Cities defense attorney resigns amid misconduct claims

KENNEWICK – A Washington state criminal defense attorney has given up his law license after being accused of misconduct.

The Tri-City Herald reported that John R. Crowley submitted his resignation in lieu of discipline effective Sept. 18.

Crowley wrote in his resignation that he is giving up his Washington State Bar Association license instead of defending himself against the allegations. He was admitted to the state bar in November 1990.

Crowley could not be reached for comment on Monday.

The Bar Association accuses him of taking money from new clients, but failing to file necessary paperwork in their cases. Furthermore, he is accused of ignoring repeated calls, text messages and emails from clients and other attorneys, and lying about his actions.