The Arkansas Supreme Court today affirmed a 90-day suspension and $10,000 fine of Hot Springs lawyer John Skylar Tapp for misconduct in a paternity case.

Tapp, according to the opinion, first agreed and took a fee to represent a woman seeking to establish paternity, but she changed lawyers after Tapp had learned details of the case. He refunded most of the payment. He later was hired to represent the man being sued and disputed unsuccessfully a motion that he disqualify for a conflict of interest.

Advertisement

He didn’t contest the findings of the Supreme Court Committee on Professional Conduct that he had violated ethics rules. But he said the license suspension was excessive. The court said the punishment was within the bounds for “serious misconduct” and deceit or misrepresentation were grounds for such a finding. The Supreme Court noted that Tapp had a lengthy disciplinary record, with six cautions, a warning and six reprimands for various lapses. Given the finding of serious misconduct and a disciplinary record that “demonstrates a substantial disregard of his professional duties, we do not agree with Tapp’s contention that a suspension is unduly harsh under the facts of this case,” the Supreme Court said.

Be a part of something bigger

As a reader of the Arkansas Times, you know we’re dedicated to bringing you tough, determined, and feisty journalism that holds the powerful accountable. For 50 years, we've been fighting the good fight in Little Rock and beyond – with your support, we can do even more. By becoming a subscriber or donating as little as $1 to our efforts, you'll not only have access to all of our articles, but you'll also be helping us hire more writers to expand our coverage and continue to bring important stories to light. With over 63,000 Facebook followers, 58,000 Twitter followers, 35,000 Arkansas blog followers, and 70,000 daily email blasts, it's clear that our readers value our great journalism. Join us in the fight for truth.

Previous article Former prosecutor gets day in court on harassment charge; ‘slap on wrist’ neighbor says Next article Supreme Court rules against Alltel in cell phone fee case