Judge: Elaine W. Mandel, Case: 21STCV01974, Date: 2023-02-22 Tentative Ruling

Case Number: 21STCV01974    Hearing Date: February 22, 2023    Dept: P

Tentative Ruling
Johnson v. Essex Property Trust, Inc. et al., Case No. 21STCV01974
Hearing Date February 22, 2023
Herbert Hayden, Esq.’s Motion to be Relieved as Counsel for Plaintiff

Attorney Herbert Hayden moves to be relieved as counsel for plaintiff Johnson, stating “plaintiff’s actions and lack of candor have irreparably damaged the attorney-client relationship.” Johnson opposes, as she disagrees with Hayden’s characterization of her actions, and states his withdrawal would result in severe prejudice.

The vagueness of Hayden’s allegations regarding the breakdown of the attorney-client relationship, together with Johnson’s opposition, make it impossible for the court to determine whether there is good cause for withdrawal. There is no trial date set, so no significant prejudice to plaintiff should the motion be granted. The court may request further briefing on the nature of the breakdown of the attorney-client relationship, perhaps in camera.

On January 23, 2023, plaintiff appeared and indicated she was seeking new counsel, which would moot the motion.