Costa Mesa attorney Robyn Lynnette Pool has been disbarred by the California State Bar over allegations she engaged in more than 15 instances of loan modification misconduct, according to a recent decision.
The disbarment proceeding against Pool included nine separate notices of disciplinary charges that were consolidated, according to the May 5 decision. The state bar charged Pool with 127 counts of misconduct in 50 separate client matters.
The state bar also recommended Pool be ordered to pay more than $300,000 plus interest in restitution to 44 former clients.
Pool failed to participate in person or via counsel and the state bar's decision and order for disbarment was entered by default. In cases such as this, in which an attorney fails to participate in a California State Bar disciplinary proceeding despite adequate notice and opportunity, the bar invokes Rule 5.85, which provides the procedure for the bar to recommend an attorney’s disbarment.
The state bar's decision is pending final action by the California Supreme Court, an appeal before the state bar's Review Department or expiration of time in which parties to may request further review within the State Bar Court.
Pool's law office address is in Costa Mesa, according to her profile on the state bar's website. She was admitted to the bar in California on Feb. 20, 2002.
Allegations against Pool include multiple counts of collecting advanced fees prior to completing all loan modification services, not promptly refunding unearned advance fees, dropping clients without performing any legal services and allowing one of her employees to provide client legal advice.
Pool also was charged with multiple counts of entering into loan modification fee agreements without first providing clients with required separate written statements that it is not necessary to pay a third party to arrange loan modification or other form of loan forbearance, that clients may deal directly with their lender.
No previous disciplinary action against Pool is listed on at the state bar's website.