Opinion
21-cv-3072-YGR
09-14-2021
Memphis Meats, Inc., Plaintiff, v. Napat Tandikul, Defendant.
ORDER REQUIRING COUNSEL OF RECORD TO SUBMIT FURTHER INFORMATION RE: WITHDRAWAL OF COUNSEL FOR DEFENDANT
DKT. NO. 39
YVONNE GONZALEZ ROGERS, UNITED STATES DISTRICT JUDGE
The Court has received the motion of defendant's counsel (“Counsel”) to withdraw from representation of Defendant Napat Tandikul (“the Client”) in the above-captioned action, along with the accompanying declaration and plaintiff's objection thereto. (Dkt. Nos. 39, 41, and 42.) The hearing on such motion is currently set for September 21, 2021.
Plaintiff's objection does not persuade, especially given the criminal overlay and the firing of the law firm. While clearly more convenient, plaintiff's preferences do not control the legal basis for granting the motion. That litigating this case will become more difficult is not a basis for denying the motion. Accordingly, the Court tentatively grants the motion but Orders (i) defendant to acquire counsel or be subject to the striking of her answer if she fails to prosecute this case and (ii) counsel to submit further information. Thus:
1. By no later than September 20, 2021, Counsel shall file a supplemental declaration indicating that Counsel has: (1) spoken directly with the Client, telephonically or in person by video, about the case generally and the status of the proceedings, including the date of such communication or, if Client is not responsive, how Counsel has transmitted such information to the Client; and (2) discussed with the Client the delivery of any legal files to the Client and other consequences of Counsel's withdrawal in this matter. Counsel shall file a notice with the Court of Client's current and/or last known address, telephone number, and email address.
2. By no later than September 20, 2021, Counsel shall also file proof of service of a notice to the Client as follows:
NOTICE
You are ordered by the Court to obtain counsel in the United States by October 22, 2021 to facilitate resolution of this case. New counsel shall file a notice of appearance on or before that date. If you fail to obtain new counsel, and you fail to participate actively in this case, the Court will consider Striking your Answer.
If you do not have a new attorney to represent you in this action or proceeding, you will be representing yourself. It will be your responsibility to comply with all court rules and applicable laws. If you fail to do so, or fail to appear at hearings, action may be taken against you. You may lose your case.
If you do not keep the Court and other parties informed of your current address (physical and email) and telephone number, they will not be able to send you notices of actions that may affect you, including actions that may adversely affect your interests or result in your losing your case
Should Counsel fail to comply with the above requirements, the Court may deny the motion to withdraw.
It Is So Ordered.