An agreed four year suspension was approved by the Arizona Presiding Disciplinary Judge

Mr. Carr had a contract with the Office of Public Defense Services (OPDS) to provide representation to indigent criminal defendants. He was first chair on two separate death penalty cases and advisory counsel on a third case. His billings for those services were replete with statements of client confidences. Such billings are open to the public. Mr. Carr billed for services specifically excluded by his contract including, but not limited to, scanning documents and non-substantive motions. He also billed for work not performed. As first chair, he also failed to oversee the work of the mitigation expert to assure the work for the mitigation phase of trial was performed. These shortcomings regarding his oversight of mitigation partially led to petitions for postconviction being granted and his clients being returned for re-sentencing.

Additionally, Mr. Carr was summarily suspended from the practice of law for failing to submit proof of his mandatory continuing legal education. He received actual notice of his suspension but continued to practice law. Mr. Carr stipulates his conduct violated his duty to the profession, the legal system and the public. These failings were admitted to be knowingly done.

The Phoenix New Times reported on the billing issues. (Mike Frisch)