Panamanian lawyer José Antonio Moncada has denounced a persecution against him aimed at silencing him. This statement follows a complaint related to his professional practice being referred to the Supreme Court of Justice for evaluation. The case reached the Fourth Chamber of General Business of the Court after a formal request was filed with the National Bar Association. The association requested an analysis to determine if there are merits to open a disciplinary process.
According to the case file, the complaint was filed by Elzebir Ofelina Montenegro Gutiérrez. She questioned the lawyer's actions in a legal matter connected to her daughter. The documentation indicates that on January 16, 2022, the complainant contacted the lawyer via WhatsApp to inquire about the status of a case and explore legal alternatives regarding a potential termination of the process. During this exchange, the lawyer stated that the legal study of the case would cost 380 balboas. The complainant subsequently made an advance payment of 180 balboas via an electronic transfer through Yappy from Banco General.
Moncada maintains that the facts have been misinterpreted. He affirmed that requesting fees for the study of a case file is part of a legitimate professional practice within the exercise of law.
"Charging for the legal evaluation of a case file is a valid and recognized professional practice within the legal profession. One cannot expect a lawyer to analyze a complex case without the corresponding technical and legal study," the lawyer stated.
He added that there has been no breach of his professional duties. He promised to present all necessary elements at the appropriate procedural time to demonstrate that his actions strictly adhered to the principles of professional ethics and the rules governing the legal profession.
"I categorically reject any statement that attempts to link my actions to an ethical breach. I am willing to provide all the necessary evidence to clarify the facts," he pointed out.
Legal sources explained that referring a case file to the Supreme Court of Justice of Panama does not automatically imply disciplinary responsibility. It is up to this instance to analyze the background and determine if there are sufficient merits to formally open a process. The case is currently in a preliminary review phase. The Court must evaluate the submitted documentation before making any decision regarding the potential opening of a disciplinary process.
In the lawyer's opinion, this complaint is part of actions directed at discrediting him and limiting his professional practice. He ensures that he will present the corresponding explanations and evidence at the appropriate procedural time. Moncada warned that he will face the process with total transparency. He reiterated his trust that the corresponding authorities will clarify the facts, stating he will not allow what he considers an attempt at pressure or discredit to tarnish his professional track record.
