El Paso attorney Robert A. Skipworth is currently the subject of separate disciplinary complaints in both Texas and New Mexico. These filings allege a sustained pattern of professional misconduct, centered on his representation of homeowners’ associations (HOAs). The allegations range from filing retaliatory lawsuits and acting without client authority to making material misrepresentations in legal proceedings.
The Core Allegation: Litigation Without Authority
A central pillar in both the Texas and New Mexico grievances is the allegation that Mr. Skipworth initiated foreclosure litigation in direct defiance of his clients' established policies. Evidence records indicate that on July 15, 2024, the El Mirador HOA formally adopted a $7,500 threshold for pursuing foreclosure. Despite his office acknowledging this policy via email, Mr. Skipworth filed multiple lawsuits for amounts significantly below that limit just months later.
These actions form the basis for alleged violations of Rule 1.02 in Texas and Rule 16-102 in New Mexico, which mandate that an attorney must abide by a client’s decisions concerning the objectives of representation.
Pattern of Retaliation and Misrepresentation
The complaints further document a pattern of personal animus. In the Perkins matter (Texas), evidence shows Mr. Skipworth explicitly asking property managers, "When can I sue this guy?" shortly after homeowner inquiries were made regarding HOA financial transparency. In New Mexico, the Treviño and Loya records detail allegations of secret filings of procedurally invalid bylaw amendments to retroactively justify association actions.
Furthermore, both state filings point to a documented instance where Mr. Skipworth claimed to represent the Sierra del Sol HOA in writing—a claim later refuted under oath by the client themselves. This alleged pattern of dishonesty is a primary focus of the pending investigations.
Official Disciplinary Records & Evidence
Detailed evidence, including signed pleadings, notarized exhibits, and email communications, is available via the following case files: