Commission removes a default, moves multiple defaults and settlements and ratifies administrative dismissals

The Judicial Branch Certification Commission addressed grouped default and settlement matters during its May 1, 2026 meeting. Staff asked the commission to enter default final orders for several grouped matters and to pass on specific items; commissioners agreed to act on the grouped defaults and defer others for separate consideration.

In cause 0762 the respondent joined by Zoom and identified themselves as Tony (Toyin) Akinibossa. They explained they had traveled for family reasons and had limited access to email; staff reported notice had been sent by multiple methods (email, first-class and certified mail). Commissioners voted to remove the default, directed staff to update contact information, and advised the respondent to work with staff to avoid future service issues.

For cause 0831 (David Laurel) staff reported the respondent had appeared before the complaint review committee but failed to respond to the formal notice of this commission’s hearing. Commissioners discussed allegations that the respondent served in uncertified capacity for numerous cases (a figure referenced in the respondent’s materials) and, after discussion, voted to accept the default final order by voice vote with one recorded opposition.

On settlements, staff presented a negotiated agreement with Family Elder Care (cause 0844) arising from an audit by Disability Rights Texas that identified accounting irregularities, including a double rent payment and missed guardian visits. Commissioners expressed concern about issuing a public reprimand without complaint review committee input and voted to send the matter to the advisory/complaint review committee for further practitioner review.

Staff also described a settlement with Northcentex Guardianship Services under which the program agreed to surrender its license after completing specified conditions. Commissioners discussed continuity of care for affected wards, staff assistance to the local probate court to reassign cases if necessary, and the limited options in the region; the commission accepted the surrender agreement.

Finally, commissioners ratified a block of administrative dismissals (agenda block 9) covering various guardianship, process-server and court-reporter certification matters by voice vote. The meeting proceeded to a closed session to deliberate applicant information exempt from public discussion.