The Texas Criminal Appeals Court's PS Complaint Review Committee has recommended the permanent revocation of Gabriel Hasman's process server certification following a complaint filed by Carol Lombardino. The complaint, dated December 28, 2023, accused Hasman of submitting a false return of service. The committee's decision includes a financial penalty of $1,450, which is to be paid within 12 months of the final order.
During the meeting, committee members discussed the implications of multiple complaints against Hasman, emphasizing that each case would be reviewed independently. This approach ensures that if one complaint is dismissed, the other could still result in permanent revocation. The committee highlighted the importance of thorough investigations and the need for clear evidence in such cases.
Hasman, during the proceedings, expressed difficulty recalling specific details from the incident due to the time elapsed since it occurred. He acknowledged the discrepancies in his report regarding the service attempt, which raised questions among committee members about the accuracy of the information provided by third-party vendors like ABC Legal.
The committee underscored that the standard of review for these cases is based on a preponderance of evidence, allowing for some reliance on hearsay. This flexibility is crucial as not every case will have 100% corroborative evidence. Ultimately, the committee voted unanimously to adopt the proposed sanctions against Hasman, marking a significant step in maintaining ethical standards within the process serving profession.
The meeting also touched on another complaint against Jesse Villarreal, filed by Ernest West, which similarly alleges a false return of service. The committee's ongoing commitment to addressing these complaints reflects its dedication to upholding integrity in legal processes across Texas.