Sanction In Tennessee

A recent sanction imposed by the Tennessee Supreme Court

Effective January 14, 2025, the Supreme Court of Tennessee suspended John Edward Hutson from the practice of law for two (2) years, with six (6) months being an active suspension pursuant to Tennessee Supreme Court Rule 9, Section 12.2, and the remainder served on probation conditioned upon compliance with the Tennessee Lawyers Assistance Program and employing a practice monitor at his expense for six (6) months following reinstatement.

A Petition for Discipline containing one complaint was filed by the Board alleging that Mr. Hutson knowingly provided financial assistance to his client, entered into a business transaction with his client to obtain services for repayment of the funds provided to the client, and made overtures and requests for a personal relationship with his client during the representation that materially limited his representation of the client and was prejudicial to the administration of justice.

Mr. Hutson executed a Conditional Guilty Plea acknowledging his conduct violated Tennessee Rules of Professional Conduct 1.7(a)(2) (conflict of interest), 1.8 (conflict of interest), and 8.4(a) and (d) (misconduct).

(Mike Frisch)