Knoxville lawyer permanently disbarred
January 8, 2021

KNOXVILLE - Effective January 7, 2021, the Supreme Court of Tennessee permanently disbarred James Lester Kennedy from the practice of law. Kennedy is also responsible for the costs of the disciplinary proceeding.

A Hearing Panel found Kennedy distributed attorneys’ fees and personal expenses in a probate matter to himself and others which were not authorized by the court. The Panel determined Kennedy failed to demonstrate good faith, diligence, prudence and caution and also failed to demonstrate loyalty and fidelity to the estate as required. Kennedy violated Tennessee Rules of Professional Conduct 1.3 (Diligence), 3.4 (c) (Fairness to Opposing Party and Counsel), and 8.4 (c) and (d) (Misconduct).

Kennedy must comply with the requirements of Tennessee Supreme Court SEQ CHAPTER \h \r 1Rule 9, Section 28, regarding the obligations and responsibilities of disbarred attorneys.