In Re Jose A Diaz Algarin

José A. Díaz Algarín, a lawyer and notary admitted in 1993, was suspended indefinitely from the practice of law and notarial duties on January 9, 2007. Key violations included failing to submit monthly notarial indexes from October 2001 to the present, not filing annual activity reports for 2001, 2002, and 2004, and neglecting to correct a 1995 notarial protocol deficiency despite repeated requests. He also changed his office location and phone number without notifying the Office of Notarial Inspection (ODIN) and ignored court orders to address these issues. The Supreme Court emphasized his contempt for professional obligations and societal trust in notaries.

The case addresses the failure of José A. Díaz Algarín to comply with notary reporting requirements, ethics committee inquiries, and court orders. Specifically, he did not submit monthly notary indexes (October 2001–present), annual activity reports for 2001, 2002, and 2004, corrected a 1995 protocol deficiency, notified ODIN of office and phone changes, or respond to formal complaints and judicial mandates. His non-compliance led to indefinite suspension from law and notary practice.

The Supreme Court of Puerto Rico suspended José A. Díaz Algarín indefinitely from practicing law and notary for failing to submit required notarial indexes and annual reports, neglecting to correct a deficiency in his notarial protocol, changing office and phone details without notifying the Office of Notarial Inspection (ODIN), and repeatedly ignoring requests from the Court, the Ethics Commission, and ODIN to respond to disciplinary proceedings. The court emphasized that non-compliance with jurisdictional obligations and failure to maintain updated contact information constitute sufficient grounds for immediate and indefinite suspension.

The court decreed the immediate and indefinite suspension of José A. Díaz Algarín from the practice of law and notary. The Alguacil General was ordered to seize his notarial work and seal, to be delivered to the Office of the Director of Notary Inspection. The suspended attorney was required to notify all clients of his inability to represent them, return unearned fees, inform judicial and administrative forums of his suspension, and certify compliance within 30 days.

The court emphasized that lawyers must comply with tribunal requirements, including maintaining updated contact information and promptly responding to disciplinary proceedings. Failure to do so constitutes a breach of professional conduct warranting immediate and indefinite suspension. The decision cites prior precedents (e.g., In Re: Moreno Franco) to reinforce that obstinate non-compliance undermines judicial oversight and public trust in notarial functions.