HARRIS COUNTY, Texas – Dr. Matthews announced that she has filed a grievance with the State Bar of Texas against attorney Rebecca E. Rowland. In public statements on social media, Dr. Matthews said the grievance raises multiple concerns about Rowland’s professional conduct, court filings, representations to the court and handling of matters involving Dr. Matthews.
Dr. Matthews said an appellate filing identifying Rowland as “Attorney for Candice Matthews” is one of several matters submitted through the grievance process. Dr. Matthews said Rowland has never represented her and identified attorney Adjua Umoja-Justice and her legal team as her counsel.
According to Dr. Matthews, Rowland filed the appeal on behalf of Eric Sanchez after Judge Harrington determined that his request for a protective order did not meet the required threshold. Dr. Matthews contends the appeal lacks merit but acknowledged that the appellate court will decide that question.
Dr. Matthews said her grievance includes an allegation that Rowland’s actions implicate Texas Rule of Civil Procedure 13. She emphasized that whether any rule was violated is for the appropriate disciplinary or judicial authority to determine.
In an Instagram statement, Dr. Matthews also cited Leawood West Homeowners Association, Inc. v. Rebecca E. Rowland, Cause No. 2018-91334. She said court records reflect a default judgment against Rowland after she was served but failed to appear and answer. According to Dr. Matthews, the judgment ordered monetary relief, injunctive relief and foreclosure of the HOA’s lien.
Dr. Matthews also said she identified historical court entries categorized as paternity matters in which Rowland’s name appears. She acknowledged that those entries alone do not establish the circumstances of the cases or whether DNA testing occurred.
Dr. Matthews encouraged the public to examine the documents and filings while leaving determinations about alleged rule violations to the appropriate authorities.
