Marriage of Chase CA3

facts, we will echo Robert’s approach and incorporate the relevant portions of the record to which they relate in each part of the Discussion.

DISCUSSION

We offer an observation at the outset, rather than iterate our dissatisfaction in each part of the discussion. As demonstrated in the portion of this opinion devoted to the sanctions that the trial court imposed (pt. 11.0, post), Robert’s lawyer (who represents him on appeal) repeatedly staked out positions with little to no factual or legal basis. Whatever the boundaries of “zealous” advocacy over which this approach may have teetered in the trial court, given the restrictive standards of review on appeal involved in dissolution proceedings—to which Robert’s lawyer pays only lip service (with most rulings being within the trial court’s discretion, and substantial evidence applying to disputed questions of fact)—this appeal represents an abandonment of the duty of professional appellate advocates, even in furthering a client’s interests, to evaluate dispassionately the record in light of the law. Robert’s lawyer repeatedly ignores

2 evidence in support of the trial court’s rulings, makes abbreviated “arguments” lacking any…