The Supreme Court of Tennessee temporarily suspended Joel David Ragland from the practice of law Friday, upon finding that Mr. Ragland misappropriated funds for his personal use and continues to pose a threat of substantial harm to the public, according to a release from the licensing board.
Mr. Ragland is immediately precluded from accepting new cases and must cease representing existing clients by May 12, 2024. After May 12, 2024, Mr. Ragland shall not engage in the practice of law; use any indicia of lawyer, legal assistant, or law clerk; or maintain a presence wherein the practice of law is conducted. Mr. Ragland must notify all clients represented in pending matters, co-counsel, and opposing counsel of the Supreme Court’s Order suspending his law license. He shall deliver to all clients any papers or property to which they are entitled.
Mr. Ragland must comply with the requirements of Tennessee Supreme Court Rule 9, Sections 28 and 12.3(d), regarding the obligations and responsibilities of temporarily suspended attorneys and the procedure for reinstatement.
This suspension remains in effect until dissolution or modification by the Supreme Court. Mr. Ragland may, for good cause, request dissolution or modification of the suspension by petition to the Supreme Court.
Section 12.3 of Supreme Court Rule 9 provides for the immediate summary suspension of an attorney’s license to practice law in cases where the attorney misappropriates funds for his personal use or poses a threat of substantial harm to the public.
