Board of Professional Responsibility, Wyoming State Bar v. Kent C. Cobb, Wsb 8-6998

• Court: Wyoming Supreme Court
• Decided: April 8, 2026
• Docket: D-26-0001
• Status: Published

Opinion

IN THE SUPREME COURT, STATE OF WYOMING

2026 WY 38

April Term, A.D. 2026

April 8, 2026

BOARD OF PROFESSIONAL RESPONSIBILITY, WYOMING STATE BAR,

Petitioner, D-26-0001 v.

KENT C. COBB, WSB #8-6998,

Respondent.

ORDER OF THREE-MONTH SUSPENSION

[¶1] This matter came before the Court upon a Report and Recommendation for Three- Month Suspension, filed herein March 5, 2026, by the Board of Professional Responsibility for the Wyoming State Bar. The Report and Recommendation was filed pursuant to Rule 12 of the Wyoming Rules of Disciplinary Procedure, which governs stipulated discipline. The Court, after a careful review of the Board of Professional Responsibility’s Report and Recommendation and the file, finds that the Report and Recommendation should be approved, confirmed and adopted by the Court, and that Respondent Kent C. Cobb should be suspended from the practice of law for three months. It is, therefore,

[¶2] ADJUDGED AND ORDERED that the Board of Professional Responsibility’s Report and Recommendation for Three-Month Suspension, which is attached hereto and incorporated herein, shall be, and the same hereby is, approved, confirmed, and adopted by this Court; and it is further

[¶3] ADJUDGED AND ORDERED that, as a result of the conduct set forth in the Report and Recommendation for Three-Month Suspension, Kent C. Cobb shall be suspended from the practice of law for three months, with the period of suspension to begin April 8, 2026; and it is further; [¶4] ADJUDGED AND ORDERED that, during the period of suspension, Respondent shall comply with the requirements of the Wyoming Rules of Disciplinary Procedure, particularly Rule 21 of those rules. That rule governs the duties of disbarred and suspended attorneys; and it is further

[¶5] ORDERED that, pursuant to Rule 25 of the Wyoming Rules of Disciplinary Procedure, Mr. Cobb shall reimburse the Wyoming State Bar the amount of $50.00, representing the costs incurred in handling this matter, as well as pay the administrative fee of $750.00. Mr. Cobb shall pay the total amount of $800.00 to the Wyoming State Bar on or before April 17, 2026. If Mr. Cobb fails to make payment in the time allotted, execution may issue on the award; and it is further

[¶6] ORDERED that the Wyoming State Bar may issue the agreed press release contained in the Report and Recommendation for Three-Month Suspension; and it is further

[¶7] ORDERED that the Clerk of this Court shall docket this Order of Three-Month Suspension, along with the incorporated Report and Recommendation for Three-Month Suspension, as a matter coming regularly before this Court as a public record; and it is further

[¶8] ORDERED that, pursuant to Rule 9(b) of the Wyoming Rules of Disciplinary Procedure, this Order of Three-Month Suspension, along with the incorporated Report and Recommendation for Three-Month Suspension, shall be published in the Wyoming Reporter and the Pacific Reporter; and it is further

[¶9] ORDERED that the Clerk of this Court cause a copy of this Order of Three-Month Suspension to be served upon Respondent Kent C. Cobb.

[¶10] DATED this 8th day of April, 2026.

BY THE COURT:

/s/

LYNNE BOOMGAARDEN Chief Justice IN THE SUPREME COURT STATE OF WYOMING :

:

BEFORE THE SUPREME COURT FILED

MAR 5 2026 STATE OF WYOMING In the matter of SHAWNA GO »CL K KENT C. COBB, WSB #8-6998, BPR No. 2025-074 ) Respondent. ) D-26-0001 REPORT AND RECOMMENDATION FOR THREE-MONTH SUSPENSION

THIS MATTER came before a Review Panel of the Board of Professional Responsibility

of the Wyoming State Bar ("BPR'') on February 19, 2026, for a hearing via Zoom teleconference

pursuant to Rule 12, W.R.Disc.P. Review Panel members John C. Brooks (chair), Joelle Hadley-

Day and Tandy Dockery were in attendance. The Wyoming State Bar was represented by Bar

Counsel, Mark W. Gifford. Respondent Kent C. Cobb ("Respondent") as well as his counsel,

Anna Reeves-Olson, were present.

Based upon the parties' Stipulation for Three-Month Suspension and Respondent's Affi-

davit of Conditional Admission, the Review Panel unanimously FINDS, CONCLUDES and

RECOMMENDS as follows:

Findings of Fact

1. Respondent has been licensed to practice law in Wyoming since February 1,

2023, but was admitted to practice law in 1993. As set forth in detail below, Respondent condi-

tionally admits that he violated Rules 1.1, 1.3, 1.4 and 8.4(c) of the Rules of Professional Con-

duct in his representation of Jennifer Randall in a debt collection lawsuit. 2. On November 26, 2024, Discover Bank filed suit against Jennifer Randall in the

Circuit Court for the Third Judicial District, Uinta County, Wyoming, seeking collection of

$2,595.85.

3. Ms. Randall was served with the summons and complaint on December 11, 2024.

Under the Rules of Civil Procedure for Circuit Courts, her answer to the complaint was required

to be filed on or before December 31, 2024.

4. On December 17, 2024, Ms. Randall sent Respondent an email with her case in-

formation, including a copy of the summons and complaint. On that day, Respondent forwarded

Ms. Randall's email and attachments to his legal assistant, Rachel McDaniel, with a forwarding

note, "This is a LegalEASE case; sounds pretty simple. Wyoming. We just need to file a re-

sponse within about a week." Thus, it is clear that an attorney-client relationship was formed

with Ms. Randall on that date.

5. On December 18, 2024, Ms. McDaniel responded to Respondent with an email tomorrow." Later stating, "Okay I will call the county clerk to see if we can email the answer

the same day she sent Respondent an email stating, "Just got off the phone with the clerk regard-

ing this case. The answer can be mailed to: Ccevs@courts.state.wy.us. A check representing a $1

house." per page must be mailed to the court

6. On January 9; 2025, Ms. Randall sent Respondent an email stating, "This is J en-

are?" nifer Randall. Just making sure a response was filed? And what the next steps

7. On January 10, 2025, Respondent forwarded Ms. Randall's email to Ms. McDan-

iel with a transmittal note asking, "Did we ever do this? The client is super super nice and is

checking." That day, Ms. McDaniel e-filed a pro se answer for Ms. Randall.

8. On January 16, 2025, the court issued an order setting a scheduling conference in

the case for February 24, 2025.

2 9. On January 27, 2025, Ms. Randall sent Respondent an email with a copy of the

notice of setting, stating, "I received this in the mail today. Not sure what it means, or if I'm sup-

posed to go to this or if the lawyers just deal with it. Please let me know it made me really nerv-

ous. Thanks so much."

10. On February 7, 2025, Respondent sent Ms. Randall an email stating, "Hey Jen-

nifer. We are trying to settle this, but you need to make sure and go to this hearing if we do not.

Simply ask for a continuance because we are trying to settle this."

11. On February 21, 2025, Respondent sent Ms. Randall an email stating, "Jennifer -

Remember to go to this hearing on Monday. Just ask for a continuance, because your settlement

attorney is negotiating." Ms. Randall responded, "Perfect. I have is [sic] scheduled out to make

sure I'm there. Thank you."

12. After the scheduling conference, on the afternoon of February 24, 2025, Ms. Ran-

dall sent the following email to Respondent and Ms. McDonald: "Attached are pictures of what

they gave me today. They set a new notice of setting for 3/24/2025 at 2:00 p.m. They told me to

make sure that I get you to submit an entry of appearance to the court as soon as possible before

then. I'm not sure what that is but I told them I would. Attached is the new notice of setting pa-

per and the sticky note the judge had the court lady write. Thank you." Attached to the email

were copies of the new notice of setting as well as a yellow sticky note with the following hand-

written note: "We need an Entry of Appearance filed by him to the court, next hearing

3/24/252: 00 p.m."

13. Ms. McDaniel responded to Ms. Randall's email with, "I will handle this today

and send you a copy. It has to be mailed to the clerk." Ms. McDaniel apparently failed to under-

stand that Respondent's entry of appearance could be e-filed.

3 14. Late in the afternoon on February 24, 2025, Respondent chimed into the email

string, "I will have to see if they charge for that. If so, you would have to pay for it. We just need

to settle this. That's the main thing. Because if we don't settle it, you are going to get a judgment

against you."

15. Ms. Randall responded to Respondent's emai! with, "I was told it's just a formal

declaration to the court that you are representing me as my attorney. Which I assume was already

done since I was matched with you in December and Discover had been notified you are. But the

court is asking for it, so I'm not sure. I'm sure if extra billing is required you'd need to reach out

to legalEASE. Or I can if you'd prefer? I hope we can negotiate it before then as well, that's just

you." what the judge asked me to ask

16. No entry of appearance was filed on February 24, 2025. A telephone call to the

clerk of court's office would have confirmed that there is no fee for filing an entry of appearance.

17. On March 24, 2025, Respondent's entry of appearance was filed.

18. The March 24 scheduling conference was reset for April 14, 2025. On the after-

noon of April 14, 2025, Respondent sent an email to Ms. Randall stating, "I'm about to go to this

this?" Ms. Randall responded a few minutes later, "I hearing. What are you offering to settle

have no idea, when do I need to know by? If it's today. Why am I just being asked? My husband

are." lost his job on the 12", I need more information on what the options

19. There was apparently a technical glitch with the April 14 scheduling conference.

That afternoon, Respondent sent an email to Amanda Lee, counsel for Discover Bank, with the

subject line, "Sorry for the technical issues: "I was actually on the hearing on time, but no one this." ever let me. The client, Ms. Randall, would like to offer $80/month for 24 months to settle

20. Ms. Lee responded to Respondent's email a few minutes later, stating, "It sounds

like they will be reaching out to us to reschedule the CMC [case management conference] in 4 about 30 days. If you have an offer to send over, you can forward the offer, total monthly in-

come, total monthly expenses, and a description of your client's hardship information to of-

fers@jrllawoffice.com. You can cc me on the email if you would like, but routing it directly to

this department is the most efficient because it goes directly to my legal assistants that actually

send the offers on to the client."

21. Later in the afternoon of April 14, 2025, Respondent sent an email to Ms. Lee

with the subject line, "Offer for Jennifer Randall": "Yes, that is the offer. $80/month for 24

assets." months. Client is disabled and has no garnishable income or

22. Ms. Lee responded to Respondent's email two days later, on April 16, 2025, ask- $2,088.00?" ing, "Is she able to do payments of $87.00 for 24 months for a total settlement of

Ms. Lee's email prompted a flurry of emails between Respondent, Ms. Lee and Ms. Randall, as

detailed below.

23. Respondent forwarded Ms. Lee's email to Ms. Randall with the note, "See note

below. Do you accept the offer?"

24. Ms. Randall responded to Respondent's email five minutes later, stating, "Yeah

offer?" that works for me, did they reject the lump sum

25. A few minutes after Respondent received Ms. Randall's email, Respondent re- it." It is sponded to Ms. Lee's email with, "They are also offerings [sic] $1500 lump sum to settle

apparent from these last two emails that Ms. Randall had authorized Respondent to make a lump

sum offer of $1,500.00 which Respondent failed to convey promptly.

26. Ms. Lee responded to Respondent's email six minutes later, stating, "I already

have approval for the $2,088 in 24 months, so I would prefer to get your client's acceptance or

rejection of that offer before submitting a new lump sum offer to my client. I understand that

your client's income may likely be all exempt from garnishment, but I would still need to the 5 amount of monthly income and monthly expenses and hardship information in order to submit

your client's lump sum offer. Please let me know if your client would like to accept the settle-

ment over 24 months, and if so what date she would like her payments due so I can send over a

proposed agreement for her signature, or alternatively if she would prefer to provide the income,

expense, and hardship information I need to submit her lump sum offer to Discover."

27. Respondent responded to Ms. Lee twelve minutes later with, "Let's do the 24

months."

28. One minute later, Respondent sent the following email to Ms. Randall: "Appar-

ently they rejected that. You can always pay this offer. But it gets you 24 months of no interest.

Let's accept this offer and then she can still go back and try to talk her client into accepting the

lump sum." Respondent apparently neglected to inform Ms. Randall at this time what infor-

mation Discover Bank would need in order to consider a lump sum offer.

29. Ms. Lee then responded to Respondent's email, stating, "What date should I list

for the payments to be due? Typically they would want to see the first payment of this month yet,

but if that's not possible for your client, I would need to have payments start by May 15" at the

very latest. If we go out as far as May 15™ for the first payment, please stress to your client the

importance of us receiving that first payment on time because I must have the first payment in-

house by that date."

30. Next, Respondent sent an email to Ms. Randall, asking, "Will you make the first

payment by April 30?" Ms. Randall responded a few minutes later, stating, "Yeah. I'd have to

know how and where. But yeah." Thus ends the email communication between Respondent, Ms.

Randall and Ms. Lee on April 14, 2025.

6 31. More than two weeks later, on April 29, 2025, Ms. Randall sent Respondent an

tomorrow?" Re- email asking, "T still need to know how to make the first payment if it's due

address." spondent responded with, "The note below has their

32. Clearly confused, Ms. Randall responded, "The only way to pay is through the

mail to a law firm? I guess I can order a checkbook but I have no way to get a receipt that way. Is

somewhere?" there a settlement document

33. Approximately one hour later, at 8:03 p.m. Central Time, Respondent responded

to Ms. Randall, "For at least the first one, until you can work it out with them, just go get a cash-

it." iers check from my [sic] convenience store. Take a picture of

34. Ms. Randall replied five minutes later, asking, "Okay, can I get the settlement

documents? Don't I need to sign something?" Respondent responded a few minutes later, "No,

you don't need to sign anything. In this case, the email from the opposing counsel is all we

need."

35. On May 6, 2025, Ms. Lee filed a motion for summary judgment on Discover

Bank's behalf. Under the rules of civil procedure for circuit courts, Ms. Randall's response to the

motion was due on or before June 4, 2025. There is no evidence that Respondent informed Ms.

Randall that the motion had been filed, its potential consequences or her duty to respond.

36. At 9:23 p.m. Central Time on May 15, 2025, Respondent sent Ms. Randall an

email stating, "Did you make that first payment? I just want to make sure you have everything

hearing." It is unclear what "hearing" worked out. Otherwise, you're going to have to go to this

Respondent was referring to, as there were no upcoming hearings in the case.

37. Ms. Randall responded at 9:42 p.m., "I sent it to the address in the email, the law

firm (it's the only address there was), I didn't send it certified mail so I have no idea if they got it

or how to even tell?"

7 38. Respondent replied at 11:06p.m., "Go ahead and email them or call them and see

if they got it." again." 39. Ms. Randall responded a few minutes later, "I will, thank you

40. On May 19, 2025, Respondent sent the following email to Ms. Randall: "Jennifer,

I went to this hearing today. They tried to get a summary judgment because you had not sent

your payment? Did you mail it into the opposing counsel? When we talked a few days ago, I un-

derstood that's what you were going to do. I got this continued until June 23 at 2 o'clock. I have

not seen any agreement that they sent me, but they are going to send me one, and you also need

them." to mail in the payment to

41, Ms. Randall responded, "Okay, I will call the number in that email when I can,

unfortunately I'm chaperoning at Teton science for my son and they don't allow electronics to be

turned on during certain hours so it's been hard to check emails. I'1l also check usps to see if it

got sent back while I've been gone. I can send another check Friday when I get back. I really

don't want to send another $80 without any clue if they re getting it, how to check my balance

etc. If you could send me an agreement that would help me feel more comfortable with all this.

Also a way to pay online if they have it because I'll just be honest I'm not going to remember to it." get a cashiers check every month and snail mail

42. The same afternoon, Ms. Lee sent Respondent the following email: "I think the

confusion this afternoon was over the terms of the agreement never getting finalized. We were

supposed to get an exact due date for the payments in order to draft an agreement and I was sup-

posed to have the first payment by May 15" at the latest. The email string below is where my

records indicate things dropped off. I can try to get re-approval for the settlement terms, but the

payments would really need to start in May. Is that still possible? If so, what date can your client

make payments by each month?" Ms. Lee's reference to the "email string below" is to the email

8 communication between Respondent and Ms. Lee on April 16, 2025 (see item 28 above). There

is no evidence that Respondent ever responded to Ms. Lee's earlier email.

43, Then Respondent simply handed the problem over to Ms. Randall. Respondent

forwarded Ms. Lee's email to Ms. Randall, stating, "Jennifer, I am having you respond to the

email questions below. I don't need to be in the middle of that, and I need you to set the payment

counsel." date and arrange payments with the opposing

44. Ms. Randall's initial response to Respondent's email reiterated her earlier re-

quests for a signed settlement agreement:

Hi Kent,

Thank you for forwarding the messages.

Before I proceed with any additional payments, I'd like to request a formal, signed agreement that outlines the terms, payment structure, and obligations for both parties. While I understand that emails can document discussions, I'm not comfortable moving forward based solely on forwarded correspondence espe - -

cially given that this involves an official court case.

Additionally, I noticed the payment is being directed to the law firm rather than Discover. Without a formal agreement clearly stating that they are the proper en- tity to receive payment, I'm hesitant to proceed. I want to ensure everything is handled properly, transparently, and with the appropriate documentation.

I'm happy to accept the terms once I receive a formal document that clearly out- lines how to pay, who to address the payment to, and who will legally own the settled debt. Please let me know when I can expect the finalized agreement, and I'll review it promptly.

45. On the evening of May 19, 2025, having had the opportunity to review the con-

tents of Respondent's April 16, 2025, email communication with Ms. Lee, Ms. Randall sent Re-

spondent the following email:

After reviewing the email correspondence between you and opposing counsel, I notice something deeply troubling. In Amanda Lee's email dated April 16, she made it clear that a lump sum hardship offer could still be submitted if I provided

9 information about my income, expenses, and overall financial situation. She spe- cifically asked for this in order to proceed with that option.

However, you told me that the lump sum offer had already been rejected, and at no point did you mention I could still pursue a hardship settlement by submitting this information. Given that my husband had just lost his job, and I've undergone several back surgeries in the last few years leaving me unable to return to work as of yet, I believe I have absolutely qualified for this option had you presented it to me when she asked. I also wrote about my hardships in my first email to you with the initial document served to me Dec 17". I have since undergone additional hardship with household job loss before that email was sent to you.

I need to understand why this was never communicated to me. The failure to in- form me of this option on that could have drastically reduced my financial and -

emotional burden - feels like a serious oversight, if not outright negligence.

This entire process has caused me significant anxiety, and I trusted you to inform me of all my options. Please provide a clear explanation of why this hardship op- tion was not discussed or pursued when it was clearly offered by opposing coun- sel.

46. Respondent responded to Ms. Randall's email the same evening:

I did communicate that to you. We communicated that to you in the first email communication, and then in subsequent communications. That's always an op- tion. But you said you had nothing lump sum to offer.

You can always get the best offers in a lump sum, including right now.

We always make the known in the very first communication we ever have with you, and we did. Look at the email.

It's still an option. We even prefer it because we can get the best deal. But you said you didn't have any lump sum to offer.

47. Several minutes later, Respondent added: ""'P.S. Your very low lump sum offer

was rejected. Then you could not raise it, you said."

48. Ms. Randall replied,

I reviewed our recent correspondence and want to point some thing out for clarification.

10 You stated that the lump sum hardship offer was rejected and that I had said I had nothing to offer. However, in your own email to opposing counsel dated April 16 at 10:04 AM, you wrote: "They are also offering $1500 lump sum to settle it." This confirms that the lump sum was not rejected it was presented as -

an active option.

Moreover, Amanda Lee's follow-up message made it clear that she was waiting on financial and hardship information from me to proceed with that offer. That request was never shared with me. If it had been, I would have gladly provided that information, as I stated in my email and earlier communication.

At this point, I need to understand the following:

1.Why this information was withheld from me. 2. Why I was told that it had already been rejected. 3. How I was supposed to pursue a hardship settlement if 1 was never given the opportunity to provide my hardship.

This has had real financial and emotional consequences. I would appreciate a di- rect and honest explanation.

** Attached are screenshots of your email to her offering the $1,500 lump sum 16") and her reply asking for documentation to apply for it. (Both dated April

49, Respondent next wrote:

Nothing was withheld from you. I asked you for that information.

The settlement is still ongoing if you want to change it. I have begged you for in- formation. You said you had nothing else to offer.

They did reject the offer. I talk to these attorneys on the phone. You're not seeing all of the communication.

You can still provide your hardship information, as I have asked for over months [sic]. Nothing is done yet.

But you cannot keep wasting my time by not providing me with information. Pro- vide me with all the information you can. Make it the best description you can.

They will always consider a lump sum, but they won't consider a lump sum low like you had. And they're typically not going to just give you money, even if you have a bad hardship. It all depends on the creditor.

Send me all your info ASAP.

[Bold type and italics in original.]

11 A few minutes later, Respondent added:

P.S. I have no incentive to withhold any information from you or not get the low- est possible settlement. It actually helps me if you get me the information more quickly. When these get drawn out, and a client tells me they have nothing else more they can offer, and then will provide detailed hardship information ... it does not help anyone.

Again, like I say, nothing has been finalized. If you have hardship infor- mation, and they are feeling generous, it would be awesome if you can come up with a lump sum I can offer them. But you have never told me what that is, and we can't play games with them.

50. Ms. Randall replied:

Attached is the screenshot of your message from April 16, where you told me the rejected." This directly contradicts Amanda lump sum offer was "apparently Lee's message sent to you just 18 minutes prior, which clearly stated that a hard- ship sum could still be considered if financial information was provided. Nowhere did you explain that I could still pursue that option by submitting documentation.

me" for that information and I've been the Your current claim - that you "begged one delaying does not match the written record. At no point did you explain -

what was needed for the hardship offer or indicate it was still on the table. In- stead, you said it was already rejected and immediately shifted me toward the monthly plan.

This is not a matter of miscommunication it's a clear failure to relay a critical -

financial option that opposing counsel explicitly offered. I am providing this as a documented example of my concern and will be including it in my formal com- plaint.

PS reply: Final Clarification on Hardship Option and Communication Breakdown

I understand your position, but the record is clear. You told me the lump sum of- fer was rejected full stop. You never explained that a hardship-based lump sum was still available pending the submission of financial documentation, even though Amanda Lee outlined that exact option in her April 16 email to you.

You didn't forward that email to me until over a month later, and only after I asked for verification of the settlement terms. At no point did you give me in- structions to submit hardship information past what you asked me to include in my very first email which I did nor did you clarify that the $1,500 lump sum - -

was conditional or improvable based on documentation.

12 This isn't about incentives this is about informed representation. I was never -

given the chance to make an informed choice. I didn't even know it wasn't re- jected until you asked me to do your job for you by forwarding me their emails and I'm now in a worse financial and legal position because of it. You may be- lieve you communicated effectively, but I have emails showing you told me this option was off the table when it was not.

** Screenshot of you telling me it was "apparently rejected" and first email out- lining hardship like you requested in our consultation. If you have any documen- tation that you asked me about hardship outside of the emails I've scoured, I'd love to see them?

51. Having been called out on his misstatements, Respondent changed tack:

P.P.S. Nothing has been settled or finalized, so there has been no effect on your finances or other elements.

I looked back through some of the correspondence, and I see what you are saying. I talk to opposing counsel on the phone, and there was something that she said that made me think they were going to accept it regardless. I may have gotten mixed up on it myself.

Fortunately, it has not had any financial or [sic] impact on you, because if they would accept it, based on what you provide, they still will.

So here's what we need you to do, for sure: Provide your best hardship situation. And then what you can offer in terms of lump sum.

I definitely want to help vou. and it's possible I may have mixed up communica- tion, but I definitely would never try to. Fortunately, it has had no impact. These cases take forever.

52. Ms. Randall's response:

Kent,

Thank you for your follow-up.

I appreciate you acknowledging that there may have been a miscommunication or mix-up regarding the lump sum hardship settlement. That said, the direct state- ment that it had been "rejected" was presented to me as final, which understanda- bly influenced my decisions and caused a great deal of stress.

I was never told that the hardship information could still be submitted before to- day's correspondence, nor was I asked for it after that April 16 exchange. I would have absolutely provided it, and I find it deeply concerning that such an important

13 option was not communicated clearly especially when the written email from -

opposing counsel made the path forward very clear.

Regardless of whether the matter is technically "finalized," this delay and lack of communication had a significant emotional and procedural impact on me, which could have been avoided with clearer guidance. I also want the record to reflect that I did not feel properly informed throughout the process.

53. In response, Respondent stated:

Believe me, I try my best to communicate as best as I possibly can. You have been going through financial stress for many years before I ever even met you, and I didn't have anything to do with any of that. I feel bad for you and your fam- ily but I did not have any impact on that.

If you would like to find someone else to reach and finalize the agreement with them, that's fine. You still have never told me what you could offer them in terms of the 2" lump sum offer which, as I understand it, is going to be needed.

Again, everything exists just as it always has. Nothing has changed. You have to still provide all of the information, and they have not promised to accept anything in particular.

Just let me know ASAP. I can't keep spending time on this. I'm losing money on this big time. I can withdraw tomorrow if you would like.

54. Ms. Randall had clearly had enough. She wrote:

Dear Kent,

This message serves as formal notice that I am terminating your legal representa- tion, effective immediately. I no longer feel that my legal interests have been ade- quately represented, and I have documented multiple instances of serious mis- communication, lack of diligence, and professional misconduct throughout the course of your handling of my case.

My reasons for terminating this relationship include but are not limited to the fol- lowing:

¢ Failure to timely file with the court after I first contacted you on December 17, 2024, resulting in my appearing unrepresented at initial hearings. * Failure to file a formal Notice of Appearance with the court for months, despite repeated notices and my own efforts to address the issue. * Repeated delegation of legal duties to me, including instructing me to attend court hearings alone and communicate with opposing counsel directly. * Misrepresentation of settlement options, including telling me a lump sum offer was "rejected," when opposing counsel had in fact requested financial

14 documentation to pursue it further. This cause unnecessary stress and deprived me of an informed decision. « Requesting that I send payment to the law firm rather than Discover without providing a signed settlement agreement clearly outlining the terms, even after opposing counsel requested formal documentation. This left me fully unpro- tected and legally vulnerable. * Dismissive, contradictory, and gaslighting responses when I questioned your handling of my case. Mischaracterizing a court-related letter clearly addressed to your law office -

me," which further de- as having been "accidentally mailed to you instead of layed my understanding of the case and misled me regarding its legal signifi- canice.

This experience has had a significant and lasting toll on me. As someone with panic disorder, ADHD, and degenerative disc disease, I sought legal representa- tion in hopes of reducing my anxiety and protecting my stability. Instead, I was repeatedly put in confusing and high-pressure situations that worsened my mental health and left me feeling abandoned during an already vulnerable time. What I needed was guidance and clarity. What I received was dismissal and blame.

I am requesting that you send me a complete digital copy of my file, including all communications with Discover's counsel, all filings, and any documents related to proposed settlements. Please send this no later than May 24, 2025.

Additionally, I will be filing a formal complaint with the Wyoming State Bar, Veritas Legal Plan, and LegalEASE regarding your conduct and the harm caused by your representation. I will be submitting supporting documentation including email correspondence, screenshots, and recorded phone conversations. If you be- lieve there is anything material that should be considered before I proceed, you may reply.

I will also be informing opposing counsel that I am now self-represented moving forward, to ensure all future communications and case matters are handled di- rectly.

Finally, your last message to me - implying that my financial hardship over the past two years from a severe condition somehow excuses or justifies the confu- sion and stress your representation has cause was not only unprofessional, but -

money" by representing me deeply manipulative. Suggesting that you have "lost time" is both cruel and inappropriate, especially and that I am "wasting your given the repeated failures to properly inform, support, or advocate for me throughout this process. The language you used was dismissive, emotionally in- validating, and served only to shift blame and diminish my very real concerns.

55. Twenty minutes later, Respondent replied:

Jennifer, 15 I do not have any digital copies of anything you have not seen, and I will not be providing you with anything further.

I have spent an extra extraordinary [sic] amount of time on your relatively small case. And now you are complaining. Everything that was available is still availa- ble to you, but yet you complain.

You have everything that is there except for phone communications with oppos- ing counsel, which were important. Phone communications with opposing counsel affected what I told you and I told you everything I had in the best possible way.

Iwill be more than eager to explain the major work my paralegal and I did on this case to the Wyoming Bar Association, LegalEASE, Veritas or anyone else. A -

while back, my paralegal asked me why I was spending so much time on tis case. My work has done nothing but benefit you. That is easy to prove.

As you yourself mentioned at different points, you have been under stress from your own family personal situations that have nothing to do with me.

For a relatively small case, I have been to multiple hearings and spent an extraor- dinary amount of time going back-and-forth between you and the creditors [sic] representative. You may not care at all whether I have lost money on this case, but that is not considerate of you.

Regardless, you can complain about me all you want, but it does not affect that fact that I did a good job for you. My paralegal and opposing counsel know it.

At your request, I will be withdrawing from this case tomorrow.

56. Respondent ended the May 19, 2019, email conversation with Ms. Randall on the

following note:

See below I stated to you that they had rejected your $1,500 offer, which they -

did, without other financial and hardship info. And you had not provided any hardship info that I had not told them already.

I didn't want you to get a judgment, so you and I both agreed that you would accept their 24 pay offer and then try to get the opposing counsel to talk their client into accepting the $1,500 lump sum, which they earlier rejected.

Weare still at that stage now, but at your request I am withdrawing.

57. Two days later, on May 21, 2025, Respondent sent the following email to Ms.

Randall: 16 I am withdrawing today. As you know, your case is settled with the interest-free payments, at a 20% reduction, over 2 years. Unless you purposely sabotage that, and we are not responsible for that.

Second, once you made the first payment, we were going to start pressing them to do a lump sum settlement and specifically said that to you in writing. We simply were going to have to have other information from you (though I had told them you had no garnishable income and only one income) and then we were going to press for a lump sum offer.

58. A few minutes later, Respondent added, "TI also let the Opposing Counsel know I

am withdrawing today."

59. Ms. Randall replied:

Dear Mr. Cobb,

As I previously stated in my formal termination letter, I am no longer your client and respectfully request no further contact unless it directly pertains to providing my complete case file.

Please ensure that all documents, including communications with opposing coun- sel and any filings related to my case including your withdrawal with the courts, are sent to me by May 25" 2025, as originally requested.

Any further communication unrelated to this request will be considered unwel- come.

60. A few minutes later Respondent sent an email to Ms. Randall from Ms. McDan-

iel's email address that stated:

Hello Ms. Randall,

We understand that you are feeling frustrated and upset about the current state of your case, and we want to take a moment to address your concerns with the care and attention they deserve.

First, we want to reaffirm that your case is currently set up with an interest-free payment plan, which includes a 20% reduction over a two-year period. It's im- portant to note that this arrangement will remain in effect unless there are deliber- ate actions that could jeopardize it. We are committed to ensuring that you are not held responsible for any unforeseen issues that may arise.

Once opposing counsel received your initial payment, our intention was to ac- tively pursue a lump-sum settlement on your behalf. This plan communicated to 17 you in writing, highlighting that we would require additional information from you to proceed effectively. We want to reassure you that it was conveyed to op- posing counsel that you have no garnishable income and rely solely on one source of income.

We want to clarify that at no point did we misrepresent the settlement offers. For several months, you expressed a desire for a structured monthly payment plan, and that is precisely what we pursued with opposing counsel.

On April 14, prior to your hearing, we reached out to you to discuss potential of- fers for settling the case. We understand that you were feeling uncertain, particu- larly given the recent job loss your husband experienced. We provided you with a general outline of possible offers, and we entered the hearing with your best inter- ests in mind. Following our discussions, a proposed offer of $80 per month for 24 months was made, which reflects roughly a 25% reduction.

Two days later, on April 16, we received a counteroffer from the opposing coun- sel for payments of $87 per month over the same 24-month period. We promptly communicated this to you and inquired whether you would accept the offer. Your response indicated that it was acceptable, and you asked about the status of the lump-sum offer. We noted that her phrasing suggested some flexibility, as she ex- pressed a preference while also indicating a willingness to discuss further options.

Throughout this process, there has been considerable back and forth among multi- ple parties, and we focused on maintaining a positive rapport with opposing coun- sel to facilitate future negotiations regarding the lump sum. My earlier remark that" was in reference to the opposing counsel's about "apparently they rejected reluctance to submit a lump-sum offer until we reached a settlement on the monthly payments. Given your preference for this payment method, especially considering your husband's recent job loss, we believed it prudent to accept the current offer. This strategy would allow us to keep the lines of communication open with the opposing counsel, potentially leading her to advocate for a lump- sum acceptance later.

We want to emphasize that it was specifically stated that pursuing a lump sum was still a possibility, including the lump sum that the opposing counsel was hesi- tant to submit until we reached an agreement on the payment plan. Our intention has always been to work towards that lump sum for you, and we believed this was communicated clearly.

We understand that it can be easy to nitpick details within multiple email ex- changes, especially given the rapid back and forth among three or four parties. We want to assure you that there was absolutely no intention on my part to with- hold a lump sum offer from you. While I may not always express myself perfectly in every word or paraphrase, my focus has been on conveying the strategy that would ultimately benefit you. We recognize that I missed the contradiction in the

18 opposing counsel's language, but my commitment remained to pursue the best possible outcome without any intention to misrepresent the situation.

In fact, the current arrangement provides you with the flexibility to manage your payments interest-free for two years, which is especially important given your husband's job situation.

Regarding your concerns about timely filings and representation, we want to clar- ify a few key points:

We did not fail to timely file with the courts. As a presumed referral, we do not have prior knowledge of potential cases until they are referred to us. We are not required to do any work on our law partner referrals that are not covered under the member benefits. This is sometimes a timely process to verify what services are covered. Furthermore, our commitment is to assess the facts before making any decisions. In many instances, including yours, we provide guidance without for- mal representation. In your case, we have provided legal representation for over five months, paying out of pocket for filing fees, and attending hearings with no compensation to date.

Under Wyoming law, specifically Wyo. Stat. § 1-21-201(b), the rules regarding small claims do not require defendants to file an answer or any responsive plead- ings in response to a claim. The statute explicitly states that in small claims ac- tions, the defendant is not obligated to respond to the claim unless the court orders otherwise. This provision is designed to simplify the process for defendants and encourage resolution without the need for formal pleadings.

Additionally, Wyo. Stat. § 1-21-201(c) further emphasizes that small claims pro- ceedings are intended to be informal and expeditious, allowing parties to present their cases without the complexities often associated with traditional litigation. This means that if you choose not to file an answer, the court will still proceed with the case.

It is important to be aware of your rights and options in these proceedings. While it is not mandatory to file an answer, may still choose to do so if you wish to pre- sent your side of the case or challenge the claims made against you.

2. When you reached out to us in December 2024, Wyoming had not yet imple- mented remote hearings. As we are not physically located in Wyoming, we are unable to attend the hearings you had scheduled for J anuary. During our conver- sation, you expressed that you did not want to incur the expense of hiring local appearance counsel. As a result, we advised you to request a continuance, which you successfully did. Subsequently, Kent was able to attend your later hearings once remote hearings became available.

"alone." We in- 3. We want to clarify that you did not have to attend the hearing formed you that hiring appearance counsel was an option, but you decided against

19 that. Our goal was to provide you with the best possible guidance and options while respecting your preferences and financial considerations.

4, Additionally, we would like to address the nature of settlement agreements in cases like yours. It is common for the emails exchanged between attorneys to serve as the basis of the agreement, often without a formal settlement document being drafted. In my experience over the years, we estimate that in over 50% of the cases, an actual written settlement document was not created. We had not seen any settlement document from the opposing counsel, and we wanted to ensure that the agreement was not withdrawn due to any missed payments on your part. Therefore, we recommended, as we have with many other clients, that you go ahead and send the payment. This often helps to "lock in" the agreement by demonstrating your commitment with the first payment. Kindly find opposing counsel contact information below, and be advised that the payments can be made directly on Rodenburg Law Firm's (opposing counsel) website at the following web address:

https://payrodenburg.com/payment#/payment/legalDisclaimer

Opposing Counsel Co [sic] Amanda Lee Rodenburg Law Firm 300 N.P. Avenue, Suite 105 P.O. Box 2427 Fargo, ND 58108-2427 aleewiebolt@rlawoffice.com

behalf. We hope this clarifies our position and the steps we have taken on your Your concerns are valid, and we want to ensure that you feel supported and in- formed every step of the way. Under Wyoming law, specifically Wyo. Stat. § 16- 22-308, a client has a right to terminate the attorney-client relationship at any time, and an attorney must comply with the client's request to withdraw from represen- tation. We respect your decision and will ensure that the transition is handled smoothly and professionally.

There is an upcoming Case Management Conference schedule in your case that is set at the following date, location and time:

"The hearing is set for the [sic] 6/23/2025 at 2:00 PM at the Circuit Court of the Third Judicial District, Uinta County, 225 9" Street Evanston, Wyoming 82930."

A copy of the above hearing notice, the entry of appearance, answer, and formal withdrawal are attached for your records.

Please feel free to reach out if you have any further questions or if you would like to discuss your options moving forward.

20 Warm regards,

Kent Cobb Law, P.C.

The email contains misrepresentations, misstatements and inaccuracies which are further detailed

below.

61. On May 28, 2025. the Office of Bar Counsel (OBC) received Ms. Randall's com-

plaint against Respondent. The OBC asked her for additional information.

62. On June 9, 2025 - several days after the deadline to file a response to Discover

Bank's motion for summary judgment had passed the court entered an order granting Respond-

ent's motion for leave to withdraw. There is no evidence that Respondent provided Ms. Randall

with a copy of the motion for summary judgment, informed her of the deadline to respond or ad-

vised her of the potential consequences of not responding.

Misrepresentations, Misstatements and Inaccuracies in the May 21 Email

"We did not fail to timely file with the courts. a" 63. Respondent did not timely file an

behalf. Respondent did not timely file an entry of appearance. Re- answer on Ms. Randall's

spondent neglected to file a response to Discover Bank's motion for summary judgment. The t

only thing Respondent timely filed was his motion to withdraw.

64. "We are not required to do any work on our law partner referrals that are not

covered under the memberbenefits.Therecordisclear that Réspondent formed a lawyer-client

relationship with Ms. Randall on December 17, 2024 (see item 4 above). From that date forward,

Respondent was required to abide by the Rules of Professional Conduct in his representation of

Ms. Randall, including the duty of diligence (Rule 1.3) and the duty to communicate with the cli-

ent (Rule 1.4).

65. "Under Wyoming law, specifically Wyo. Stat. § 1-21-201(b), the rules regarding

small claims do not require defendants to file an answer or any responsive pleadings in response 21 to a claim. The statute explicitly states that in small claims actions, the defendant is not obligated

to respond to the claim unless the court orders otherwise. This provision is designed to simplify

a" the process for defendants and encourage resolution without the need for formal pleadings.

This was not a small claims court case.

66. "Under Wyoming law, specifically Wyo. Stat. § 1-21-201(b), the rules regarding

small claims do not require defendants to file an answer or any responsive pleadings in response

to a claim. The statute explicitly states that in small claims actions, the defendant is not obligated

to respond to the claim unless the court orders otherwise. This provision is designed to simplify

" Be- the process for defendants and encourage resolution without the needforformal pleadings.

cause this was not a small claims court case, the Rules of Civil Procedure for Circuit Courts re-

quired that a timely answer to the complaint be filed.

67. "When you reached out to us in December 2024, Wyoming had not yet imple-

mented remote hearings. Remote hearings in all Wyoming circuit courts were implemented by

2021 at the latest.

68. "Additionally, we would like to address the nature of settlement agreements in

cases like yours. It is common for the emails exchanged between attorneys to serve as the basis

of the agreement, often without a formal settlement document being drafted. In my experience

over the years, we estimate that in over 50% of the cases, an actual written settlement document

was not created. We had not seen any settlement documentfrom the opposing counsel, and we

wanted to ensure that the agreement was not withdrawn due to any missed payments on your

part. " The reason Respondent had not seen any settlement document from Ms. Lee is that Re-

spondent failed to respond to her email asking what date Ms. Randall would like her payments

signature," or alterna- due so Ms. Lee could "send over a proposed agreement for Ms. Randall's

tively if Ms. Randall "would prefer to provide the income, expense, and hardship information I 22 Discover" (see item 29 above). Similarly, Respondent need to submit her lump sum offer to

failed to inform Ms. Randall that she had the option of providing income, expense and hardship

information that would need to accompany any lump sum settlement offer.

69. "Under Wyoming law, specifically Wyo. Stat. § 16-22-308, a client has a right to

terminate the attorney-client relationship at any time, and an attorney must comply with the cli-

" ent's request to withdraw from representation. When Bar Counsel asked Respondent about the

reference to Wyo. Stat. § 16-22-308, Respondent stated the statute "deals with the recovery of claims." Actu- attorney's fees in civil actions related to contract or specific types of commercial

ally, there is no Wyo. Stat. § 16-22-308. Respondent went on to assert that the email should in-

stead have referenced "044-32 Wyo. Code R.Section 32-9 - Appearances and Withdrawals. This

regulation details the specific steps an attorney must take when filing a motion to withdraw from

a contested case, including providing reasonable efforts to give actual notice to the client about

the withdrawal and its implications." In point of fact, 044-32 Wyo. Code R.Section 32-9 is a reg-

ulation applicable to contested cases before the Wyoming Insurance Department. The proper ci-

tation is WY Rules and Regulations 044-0002.32 § 9 (325). It has no application whatsoever to

withdrawals from circuit court proceedings. Respondent's assertions on this point raise signifi-

cant questions regarding his competence as well as his honesty.

70. As evidenced by his affidavit of conditional admission, Respondent concedes that

there is clear and convincing evidence that he violated Rule 1.1 (competence), Rule 1.3 (dili-

gence), Rule 1.4 (duty to communicate with client) and Rule 8.4(c) (engaging in conduct involv-

ing dishonesty, fraud, deceit or misrepresentation) of the Wyoming Rules of Professional Con-

duct.

71. Respondent's Rule 1.1 violations include:

23 1. Failing to recognize and acknowledge that he formed a lawyer-cli- ent relationship with Ms. Randall on December 17, 2024. 2. Citing a non-existent Wyoming statute in the May 21, 2025, email to Ms. Randall. 3, Failing to recognize that 044-32 Wyo. Code R.Section 32-9 has no application to circuit court matters.

72. Respondent's Rule 1.3 violations include:

1. Failing to timely file court documents, as discussed above. 2. Failing to attend the February 24, 2025, scheduling conference on Ms. Randall's behalf. 3. Failing to convey Ms. Randall's $1,500.00 lump sum settlement offer in a timely manner. 4. Failing to respond to the questions Ms. Lee posed in her April 14, 2025, email. 5. Failing to inform Ms. Randall of the information Ms. Lee would need to have in order for her client to consider a lump sum offer from Ms. Ran- dall. 6. Failing to follow through on getting a signed settlement agreement. 7. Forwarding his May 19, 2025, email communication with Ms. Lee to Ms. Randall and directing her to answer Ms. Lee's questions.

73. Respondent's Rule 1.4 violations include:

1. Failing to inform Ms. Randall of the information Ms. Lee would need to have in order for her client to consider a lump sum offer from Ms. Ran- dall. 2, Failing to inform Ms. Randall that Ms. Lee filed a motion for sum- mary judgment, the potential consequences of such a motion and the need to timely file a response. 3. Citing non-existent or otherwise applicable law in the May 21, 2025, email to Ms. Randall.

74. Respondent's Rule 8.4(c) violations include:

1. Telling Ms. Randall that Discover Bank "apparently" rejected the $1,500.00 lump sum settlement offer when Discover Bank told me that they needed more information to support the lump sum offer that Respondent con- veyed to Discover Bank on April 16, 2025. 2. Telling Ms. Randall Discover Bank would not accept the $1,500.00 lump sum settlement when Respondent did not recognize and com- municate that additional information was needed to support the lump sum that he had conveyed to opposing counsel on April 16, 2025. In other words, Ms. Lee was waiting on Respondent to get that information to her. 3, Telling Ms. Randall that remote hearings had not yet been imple- mented in December 2024. 24 4. Misrepresenting Wyoming law to Ms. Randall in the May 21, 2024, email to her.

Determination of the Appropriate Sanction for the Misconduct

75. Rule 15(b)(3)(D), W.R.Disc.P., provides, "In imposing a sanction after a finding

of misconduct by the respondent, the BPR [Board of Professional Responsibility] shall consider

the following factors, as enumerated in the ABA Standards for Imposing Lawyer Sanctions:

1. Whether the lawyer has violated a duty owed to a client, to the public, to the legal system, or to the profession; 2. Whether the lawyer acted intentionally, knowingly, or negligently; 3. The amount of the actual or potential injury caused by the lawyer's misconduct; and 4. The existence of any aggravating or mitigating factors."

76. Respondent's violations of Rules 1.1, 1.3, and 1.4 call into play Standard 4.4,

"Lack of Diligence," of the ABA Standards for Imposing Lawyer Sanctions. Standard 4.4 sets

forth the following guidelines:

4.41 Disbarment is generally appropriate when: (a) a lawyer abandons the practice and causes serious or potentially seri- ous injury to a client; or (b) a lawyer knowingly fails to perform services for a client and cause se- rious or potentially serious injury to a client; or (c) a lawyer engages in a pattern of neglect with respect to client matters and causes serious or potentially serious injury to a client. 4.42 Suspension is generally appropriate when: (a) a lawyer knowingly fails to perform services for a client and causes in- jury or potential injury to a client, or (b) a lawyer engages in a pattern of neglect with respect to client matters and causes injury or potential injury to a client. censure" under Rule 9(a)(3) of the Rules of Disci- 4.43 Reprimand [i.e., "public plinary Procedure] is generally appropriate when a lawyer is negligent and does not act with reasonable diligence in representing a client, and causes injury or potential injury to a client. 4.44 Admonition [i.e., "private reprimand" under Rule 9(a)(4) of the Rules of Disciplinary Procedure] is generally appropriate when a lawyer is negli- gent and does not act with reasonable diligence in representing a client, and causes little or no actual or potential injury to a client.

25 Respondent engaged in a pattern of neglect in his representation of Ms. Randall and caused in-

jury or potential injury. The presumptive sanction for Respondent's violations of Rules 1.1, 1.3

and 1.4 is a suspension.

77. Respondent's violations of Rule 8.4(c) implicate Standard 5.1, "Failure to Main-

tain Personal Integrity":

Absent aggravating or mitigating circumstances, upon application of the fac- tors set out in Standard 3.0, the following sanctions are generally appropriate in cases involving commission of a criminal act that reflects adversely on the law- yer's honesty, trustworthiness, or fitness as a lawyer in other respects, or in cases with conduct involving dishonesty, fraud, deceit or misrepresentation:

5.11 Disbarment is generally appropriate when: (a) a lawyer engages in serious criminal conduct, a necessary element of which includes intentional interference with the administration of justice, false swearing, misrepresentation, fraud, extortion, mis- appropriation, or theft; or the sale distribution or importation of controlled substances; or the intentional killing of another; or an attempt or conspiracy or solicitation of any other commit any of these offenses; or (b) a lawyer engages in any other intentional conduct involving dis- honesty, fraud, deceit, or misrepresentation that seriously adversely reflects on the lawyer's fitness to practice. 5.12 Suspension is generally appropriate when a lawyer knowingly engages in criminal conduct which does not contain the elements listed in Standard 5.11 and that seriously reflects on the lawyer's fitness to practice. 5.13 Reprimand [i.e., "public censure" under Rule 9(a)(3) of the Rules of Disci- plinary Procedure] is generally appropriate when a lawyer knowingly en- gages in any other conduct that involves dishonesty, fraud, deceit, or mis- representation and that adversely reflects on the lawyer's fitness to prac- tice law. reprimand" under Rule 9(a)(4) of the Rules of 5.14 Admonition [i.e., "private Disciplinary Procedure] is generally appropriate when a lawyer engages in any other conduct that reflects adversely on the lawyer's fitness to practice law.

Several of Respondent's violations of Rule 8.4(c) seriously adversely reflect on his fitness to

practice law. The presumptive sanction for Respondent's violations of Rule 8.4(c) is disbarment.

78. The Preface to the ABA Standards includes the following discussion regarding

mental state:

26 The mental states used in this model are defined as follows. The most culpable mental state is that of intent, when the lawyer acts with the conscious objective or purpose to accomplish a particular result. The next most culpable mental state is that of knowledge, when the lawyer acts with conscious awareness of the nature or attendant circumstances of his or her conduct both without the conscious objec- tive or purpose to accomplish a particular result. The least culpable mental state is negligence, when a lawyer fails to be aware of a substantial risk that circum- stances exist or that a result will follow, which failure is a deviation of a care that a reasonable lawyer would exercise in the situation.

Respondent's violations of Rules 1.1, 1.3 and 1.4 were negligent. However, several of his viola-

tions of Rule 8.4(c) were intentional.

Under the ABA Standards, "injury" is defined as "harm to a client, the public, the legal system, or the profession which results from a lawyer's misconduct. The level of injury can range from 'serious' injury to 'little or no' injury; a reference to 'injury' alone indicates any level of injury greater than 'little or no' injury." "Potential injury" is defined as "harm to a client, the public, the legal system or the profession that is reasonably foreseeable at the time of the law- yer's misconduct, and which, but for some intervening factor or event, would probably have re- sulted from the lawyer's misconduct."

Respondent's violations of the foregoing rules caused significant emotional distress for Ms. Ran-

dall.

79. ABA Standard 9.0, entitled "Aggravation and Mitigation," provides as follows:

9.1 Generally After misconduct has been established, aggravating and mitigating cir- cumstances may be considered in deciding what sanction to impose. 9.2 Aggravation 9.21 Definition. Aggravation or aggravating circumstances are any consider- ations or factors that may justify an increase in the degree of discipline to be imposed. 9.22 Factors which may be considered in aggravation. Aggravating factors include: (a) prior disciplinary offenses; (b) dishonest or selfish motive; (c) a pattern of misconduct; (d) multiple offenses; (e) bad faith obstruction of the disciplinary proceeding by intentionally failing to comply with rules or orders of the disciplinary agency; (f) submission of false evidence, false statements, or other deceptive practices during the disciplinary process; (g) refusal to acknowledge wrongful nature of conduct; (h) vulnerability of the victim; 27 (i) substantial experience in the practice of law; (j) indifference in making restitution; and (k) illegal conduct, including that involving the use of controlled sub- stances. 9.3. Mitigation. 9,31 Definition. Mitigation or mitigating circumstances are any considera- tions or factors that may justify a reduction in the degree of discipline to be imposed. 9.32 Factors which may be considered in mitigation. Mitigating factors in- clude: (a) absence of a prior disciplinary record; (b) absence of a dishonest or selfish motive; (c) personal or emotional problems; (d) timely good faith effort to make restitution or to rectify conse- quences of misconduct; (e) full and free disclosure of disciplinary board or cooperative attitude toward proceedings; (f) inexperience in the practice of law; (g) character or reputation; (h) physical disability; (i) mental disability or chemical dependency including alcoholism or drug abuse when: (1) there is medical evidence that the respondent is affected by a chemical dependency or mental disability; (2) the chemical dependency or mental disability caused the mis- conduct; (3) the respondent's recovery from the chemical dependency or mental disability is demonstrated by a meaningful and sus- tained period of successful rehabilitation; and (4) the recovery arrested the misconduct and recurrence of that misconduct is unlikely. (j) delay in disciplinary proceedings; (k) imposition of other penalties or sanctions; (1) remorse; and (m) remoteness of prior offenses. 9.4 Factors Which Are Neither Aggravating nor Mitigating. The following factors should not be considered as either aggravating nor mitigating: (a) forced or compelled restitution; (b) agreeing to the client's demand for certain improper behavior or result; (c) withdrawal of complaint against the lawyer; (d) resignation prior to completion of disciplinary proceedings; (e) complainant's recommendation as to sanction; and (f) failure of injured client to complain.

28 80. Aggravating factors applicable to Respondent's misconduct include dishonest or

selfish motive; a pattern of misconduct; vulnerability of the victim; and substantial experience in

the practice of law. The absence of a disciplinary history is a mitigating factor. In addition, Re-

spondent has recently paid Ms. Randall's debt to Discover Bank out of his own pocket. This is

an additional mitigating factor. Further mitigating factors include: (1) Mr. Cobb's sincere re-

morse; (2) his apology letter to Ms. Randall; (3) his $1,000 donation to Wyoming Legal Aid; and

(4) his cooperation to resolve this matter without a hearing.

81. Respondent concedes that, in consideration of the foregoing factors, a suspension

is the appropriate sanction for the conduct to which Respondent has conditionally admitted. Re-

spondent agrees to a three-month suspension.

82. Ms. Randall was provided with a copy of this Stipulation and the accompanying

Affidavit of Conditional Admission and had no objection to the stipulated sanction.

83. If the Court orders a three-month suspension in accordance herewith, Bar Counsel

and Respondent agree to the following press release:

The Wyoming Supreme Court issued an order suspending attorney Kent C. Cobb from the practice of law for a period of three months. The order of suspension stemmed from Cobb's representation of a Wyoming resident in a debt collection matter. In the course of the representation, Cobb violated his duty of competence and diligence in addition to failing to communicate with his client. Cobb also made numerous unintentional misrepresentations to his client. Cobb agreed to the sus- pension, which was recommended to the Supreme Court by the Board of Profes- sional Responsibility of the Wyoming State Bar. Cobb was ordered to pay an ad- ministrative fee in the amount of$750.00 and costs of$50.00 to the Wyoming State Bar.

Recommendation

Based upon the foregoing findings and conclusions, the Review Panel recommends that

the Court issue an order of three-month suspension of Respondent; and that Respondent be re-

quired to pay an administrative fee of $750.00 as provided in Rule 25(b), W.R.Disc.P.

29 Dated this) day of February, 2026.

John C tooks, Review Pané air Boardof Professional Responsibility Wygming State Bar