IN RE: J. Dirk CARNAHAN (2021)

Published Judgment in Favor of Respondent

Upon review of the report of the hearing officer, the Honorable Robert C. Reiling, Jr., who was appointed by this Court to hear evidence on the Indiana Supreme Court Disciplinary Commission's verified disciplinary complaint, and the briefs of the parties, the Court finds that Respondent did not engage in professional misconduct and enters judgment for Respondent.

Charge: In its amended disciplinary complaint, the Commission alleged that Respondent violated Indiana Admission and Discipline Rule 22 (Oath of Attorneys) by failing to abstain from offensive personality.

Discussion: The Court incorporates by reference the hearing officer's findings of fact. The hearing officer concluded the Commission failed to meet its burden of proving the charged violation. After reviewing the evidence and considering the parties’ arguments, the Court concludes that the hearing officer's findings of fact and conclusions of law are supported by the evidence, which we decline to reweigh.

The Court therefore finds that the allegation of misconduct was not proven and enters judgment for Respondent. The hearing officer appointed in this case is discharged with the Court's appreciation.

All Justices concur.