Substantially Related

The Tennessee Board of Professional Responsibility has censured an attorney

Mr. Richardson was appointed to represent a father in a dependency and neglect petition involving a child. Mr. Richardson ceased representing the father. Mr. Richardson then began representing the mother in an action to modify the permanent parenting plan for the child. The two matters were substantially related, the subsequent client’s interests were materially adverse to the former client’s interests, and the former client did not give timely informed consent confirmed in writing.

By these acts, Mr. Richardson has violated Rule of Professional Conduct 1.9 (duties to former clients) and is hereby Publicly Censured for this violation.

(Mike Frisch)