Eric Pinkston’s legal team, Di Pietro Partners, has asked a Florida judge to end their representation of the Missouri resident, citing irreconcilable differences and an unreasonable financial burden. Chief Judge Moore of the U.S. District Court for the Middle District of Florida denied the request on January 25th, stating Pinkston has not consented to the withdrawal.
The Federal Trade Commission sued Pinkston in early 2018, alleging he and others promoted fraudulent schemes that defrauded consumers of millions of dollars. Pinkston initially resisted the FTC’s motion for an injunction, claiming ignorance. However, he later agreed to a preliminary injunction after acknowledging the FTC’s strong likelihood of success. This agreement allowed Pinkston access to frozen funds in exchange for cooperation. His co-defendants faced injunctions without such concessions.
Di Pietro Partners cited Florida Bar Rules 4-1-16(b)(3) and 4-1-16(b)(4) in their motion. These rules permit withdrawal when a client substantially fails to fulfill an obligation after warning, or when continued representation imposes an unreasonable financial burden or becomes unreasonably difficult due to the client. The firm stated its differences with Pinkston regarding representation terms were irreconcilable. They also noted that continuing to represent him would be financially burdensome given both his and the firm’s financial situations.
Judge Moore’s order emphasized that Di Pietro Partners, as officers of the court, are the primary means of communication with Pinkston. The court requires replacement counsel to be secured before allowing the withdrawal. This means Di Pietro Partners must continue their duties until Pinkston finds new attorneys. The firm’s continued involvement is now likely limited to relaying court communications.