Florida Justices Water Down Indicted Attorney Suspension Rules

Florida attorneys charged with criminal offenses will have more opportunities to keep practicing law under an overhaul of suspension procedures announced by the state Supreme Court Thursday.

The high court removed the assumption that a felony indictment was clear and convincing evidence that an attorney’s license should be suspended immediately. The court also created a new “interim suspension” process, through which defendant attorneys would have the chance to protest any suspensions due to their criminal matters.

The rules also make it easier for attorneys to practice if convicted. Attorneys suspended due to a felony case can now request an end ...