Knoxville Attorney Receives Public Censure for Professional Misconduct
Knoxville, TN – It’s important to hold professionals accountable for their actions, especially when it comes to the legal field. On October 9, 2024, the Board of Professional Responsibility of the Tennessee Supreme Court took serious action against attorney Kristen Crye Stevenson by issuing a Public Censure after she demonstrated a troubling pattern of behavior in a Workers’ Compensation case.
What’s the Story?
So, here’s what happened. Kristen Stevenson was representing an employer in a Workers’ Compensation case where the Court requested that the employer approve medical treatment for an employee. The catch? This was while the case was still in the works. Instead of ensuring her client complied with the order, Stevenson knowingly failed to inform them about the Court’s instructions. This wasn’t just a one-time oversight; it was a recurring issue spanning six long months.
A Pattern of Neglect
As the situation unfolded, it became evident that Ms. Stevenson didn’t just neglect communication with her client. She also missed several scheduled court-ordered telephone conferences and even failed to show up for show cause hearings. Imagine being a client who’s relying on their attorney to handle important legal matters, only to find out that nothing was done. To add insult to injury, she also didn’t fulfill crucial filings that were necessary both for the trial court and during the appeal process. It’s a classic case of neglect.
Consequences of Inaction
As a result of her inaction, the consequences were dire. The client faced sanctions alongside fines and attorneys’ fees that piled up to a staggering amount of over $16,000. Even more concerning, Ms. Stevenson completely neglected to inform her client about these penalties. This kind of oversight not only creates more issues for the client but can also interfere with the judicial process.
Violation of Professional Ethics
During the investigation, it was found that Stevenson’s actions breached several important rules outlined in the Rules of Professional Conduct. These rules are designed to uphold the integrity and diligence expected from lawyers. Specifically, she violated:
- Rule 1.2: Focus on the scope of representation
- Rule 1.3: Maintain diligence in work
- Rule 1.4(a): Ensure proper communication with clients
- Rule 3.2: Expedite the litigation process
- Rule 3.4(c): Uphold fairness towards the opposing party and counsel
Public Censure and Its Implications
Due to these significant violations, Kristen Stevenson was publicly censured. This indicates a serious reprimand and highlights the importance of accountability within the legal profession. A public censure serves not only as a punishment for Stevenson, but also as a lesson for other legal practitioners who might think about neglecting their responsibilities.
It’s crucial in any professional setting, especially in law, to communicate effectively, adhere to court orders, and maintain a diligent work ethic. This incident serves as a reminder for both attorneys and clients about the critical nature of legal representation. Clients should feel assured that their legal counsel is looking out for their best interests and will act responsibly on their behalf.
What’s Next for Stevenson?
Though the immediate censure has been issued, the long-term effects on Stevenson’s practice and reputation are yet to be seen. Legal professionals hope that this situation will encourage all who work in the field to prioritize communication and adhere to ethical standards. After all, at the end of the day, it’s about protecting the rights and well-being of clients.
We’ll keep an eye on any further developments in this ongoing story here in Knoxville. Until then, let’s remember the importance of accountability and responsibility in all professions.
