Roane County News reports on a recent disciplinary action in Tennessee

The Tennessee Supreme Court censured attorney Jason Hines on Monday. Hines, who has a law office in Kingston, violated the professional rules on conflict of interest, safekeeping property, conflict of interest: prohibited transactions and declining or terminating representation.

“Mr. Hines, retained in a post-divorce action, engaged in inappropriate text communications with his client which potentially impaired his professional judgment and that of his client; failed to deposit client funds into his client trust account; provided inappropriate financial assistance to his client; and failed to promptly refund advance payment of unearned fees,” the Supreme Court’s Board of Professional Responsibility said in a press release.

The board oversees the conduct of attorneys for the Supreme Court. Hines must pay the board $1,389.40 for the expenses it incurred in the matter.

“A Public Censure is a rebuke and warning to the attorney, but it does not affect the attorney’s ability to practice law,” the press release said.

Hines expressed contrition when discussing his Public Censure with the Roane County News.

“Two years ago I betrayed the trust of my wife in a manner in which I am ashamed,” he said. “I have since completed a year of counseling and have rededicated my life to Christ. There is no excuse for my actions and I take full responsibility before God and man.”

(Mike Frisch)