On Wednesday, December 13, 2023, the Presiding Disciplinary Judge of the Arizona Supreme Court issued a Final Judgment and Order suspending Mark Lee Williams for 60 days for violating rules of professional conduct. The suspension will take effect on December 20, 2023.
The case is entitled “In the Matter of Mark Lee Williams,” with case no. PDJ 2023-9033.
The disciplinary proceedings arose from Williams’ representation of a client in a sexual assault case in 2021. The State Bar of Arizona alleged that during cross-examination of the alleged victim and her mother, Williams asked inappropriate questions and made inappropriate statements.
In November 2023, the State Bar submitted a Memorandum to the Presiding Disciplinary Judge regarding a proposed consent agreement between the State Bar and Williams. In the Memorandum, the State Bar provided context and clarification regarding the specific allegations made against Williams.
While the State Bar acknowledged Williams’ conduct was serious and warranted discipline, they argued certain details in the initial allegations needed clarification. For example, one allegation claimed Williams sought nude photos of the alleged victim from her phone, but the State Bar noted the actual discovery request made no mention of nude photos.
The State Bar’s Memorandum also analyzed each allegation in detail and explained the rationale behind the proposed consent agreement. They believed Williams deserved suspension but argued a shorter suspension than other similar past cases was appropriate because Williams acknowledged his wrongdoing.
Specifically, the State Bar noted Williams expressed remorse and admitted his conduct violated professional rules, unlike attorneys in other disciplinary cases who denied any misconduct. Williams also agreed to the consent agreement, avoiding a full disciplinary hearing on the matter.
On December 13, 2023, the Presiding Disciplinary Judge accepted the consent agreement between Williams and the State Bar. In addition to the 60-day suspension, Williams must complete a professional continuing legal education course. He is also placed on probation for six months following reinstatement.
The Judge’s Final Judgment and Order imposes the agreed-upon 60-day suspension and probation terms outlined in the consent documents from November 2023. Williams must now serve his suspension period before being eligible to practice law again in Arizona.
The Disposition states:
“IT IS ORDERED that Mark Lee Williams, Bar No. 022096, is suspended for 60 days, effective December 20, 2023, for his conduct in violation of the Arizona Rules of Professional Conduct and Rules of the Supreme Court of Arizona, as outlined in the consent documents.”
According to avvo.com, Mr. Williams is a criminal defense attorney in Nogales, Arizona. He acquired his law license in Arizona in 2003.
A copy of the original filing can be found here.
