In re Jerry F. Palmer

Summary

The Louisiana Supreme Court considered attorney disciplinary charges arising from Jerry F. Palmer's participation in a fraudulent insurance-company scheme, including the preparation of false financial and regulatory documents. Although Palmer cooperated extensively with federal and state authorities and presented substantial mitigating evidence, the court held that the magnitude of the fraud and his use of legal skills to further it warranted disbarment.

Holdings

1. Palmer's conviction for conspiracy to defraud insurance companies and their investors was a serious crime involving fraud and moral turpitude and warranted discipline under the Louisiana Rules of Professional Conduct.
2. Disbarment was the only appropriate sanction where Palmer used his legal skills to further an organized fraud that caused millions of dollars in losses to policyholders and investors, notwithstanding substantial mitigating evidence and cooperation with authorities.

Questions Presented

1. Whether Palmer's federal conviction for conspiracy to defraud insurance companies, policyholders, and investors warranted professional discipline.
2. What sanction was appropriate in light of Palmer's participation in an organized insurance-fraud scheme, the resulting harm, and the aggravating and mitigating circumstances.

Disposition

other