TALLAHASSEE (Florida Record) — Suspended Orlando attorney Christopher Phillip Hancock has been disbarred following an Aug. 9 Florida Supreme Court order over misappropriation and other allegations, according to a recent announcement by The Florida Bar.
"Hancock misappropriated client funds, abandoned his law office and failed to appear at various court hearings," the state bar said in its Aug. 31 announcement of the discipline and the Supreme Court's order. "He also neglected numerous clients' matters. On March 15 Hancock was suspended from practicing in bankruptcy court for failing to comply with prior court orders."
In its two-page order, the state high court approved the uncontested referee's report filed in the matter before disbarring Hancock and ordered him to pay almost $19,192 in costs. Hancock was already suspended, which meant his disbarment was effective, according to the high court's order.
Florida court orders are not final until time to file a rehearing motion expires. Filing such a motion does not alter the effective date of Hancock's disbarment.
Attorneys disbarred in the state generally cannot reapply for admission for five years and then must pass an extensive process that includes a rigorous background check and retaking the bar exam.
Hancock was admitted to the bar in Florida on Sept. 28, 2010, according to his profile at the state bar website.
Hancock was placed on emergency suspension following a Florida Supreme Court order in February that included misappropriation, according to a recent announcement by The Florida Bar. No prior discipline before the state bar prior to his emergency suspension is listed on Hancock's state bar profile.
During a telephonic case management conference in March, Hancock waived venue and the final hearing date was set for April. However, he did not appear, despite receiving notice via U.S. mail and email, according to the referee's report.