In re Lanza
New Jersey Supreme Court
322 A.2d 445 (1974)
- Written by Rocco Sainato, JD
Facts
Elizabeth Greene hired an attorney, Guy Lanza (defendant), to represent her in the sale of her home. James and Joan Connolly agreed to purchase the home from Greene, with a separate broker drafting an agreement between the parties. After the contract was drawn up by the broker, Lanza agreed to also represent the Connollys to complete the purchase. Lanza did not inform Greene of this prior to being hired by the Connollys. At the closing, the Connollys informed Greene that they would be $1,000 short, but would postdate a check for one month after the closing for that same amount. Greene agreed to this arrangement. However, when Greene attempted to deposit the check one month later, the transaction could not be completed. Greene contacted the Connollys, who informed Greene that they would not deposit the funds into their account, because the cellar in the home was prone to flooding and would cost $1,000 to repair. Greene contacted Lanza regarding the situation, but Lanza did not act. The Bergen County Ethics Committee (plaintiff) brought this action against Lanza in the New Jersey Supreme Court.
Rule of Law
Issue
Holding and Reasoning (Per curiam)
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