Court: Missouri Court of Appeals; June 14, 2018; Missouri; State Appellate Court
Sean Patrick Paris, a member of the Kentucky Bar Association (KBA) since October 18, 1996, faced suspension for non-payment of dues on April 22, 1999, after failing to comply with Supreme Court Rule (SCR) 3.480(1). He has practiced law in Colorado since May 1997 without any disciplinary actions or license issues in Kentucky or other states. In 2004, he was charged with unprofessional conduct in Colorado but was exonerated through a summary judgment.
On November 17, 2016, Paris filed an application for restoration under SCR 3.500(3), supported by a memorandum from the Office of Bar Counsel indicating no pending disciplinary matters and compliance with the Clients' Security Fund. Additionally, he provided a letter from the Director of Continuing Legal Education confirming completion of CLE requirements. The Character and Fitness Committee reviewed his application on July 19, 2017, concluding that Paris's conduct post-suspension was appropriate and recommending his restoration upon passing a written examination.
The Board of Governors unanimously endorsed the restoration application, and Paris passed the required examination on February 27, 2018. SCR 3.500 outlines the requirements for restoration, which Paris satisfied, including submitting applications and fees, providing necessary certificates, and passing the examination. The Character and Fitness Committee confirmed no costs were incurred, while total KBA costs amounted to $659.11.
The Court found that Paris met all restoration requirements and ordered his reinstatement to the Kentucky Bar, subject to payment of current dues. Additionally, any remaining funds in his bond account exceeding $659.11 are to be refunded to him. The charges against Paris in Colorado were related to alleged violations of the Colorado Rules of Professional Conduct during his time as a prosecutor, which the Colorado Supreme Court dismissed based on the absence of a criminal case against the suspect involved.
The order was issued by Chief Justice John D. Minton Jr., with all justices concurring.
