On Wednesday, October 8, 2025, the Presiding Disciplinary Judge of the Arizona Supreme Court suspended attorney Ronald N. Hatcher, Bar No. 015789, for six months, retroactive to April 24, 2025. The suspension stems from violations of the Arizona Rules of Professional Conduct and Rules of the Supreme Court of Arizona.
The case is entitled “In the Matter of Ronald N. Hatcher,” with case number PDJ2025-9027.
The decision follows the acceptance of an Agreement for Discipline by Consent submitted by Hatcher and the State Bar of Arizona, in accordance with Rule 57(a) of the Arizona Rules of the Supreme Court.
The case originates from a Formal Complaint filed on April 18, 2025, referencing State Bar Nos. 24-1894 and 24-2375. The Attorney Discipline Probable Cause Committee had previously entered an order of probable cause on April 14, 2025.
Hatcher’s ethical breaches occurred while he was already under suspension from practicing law and working as a paralegal. He failed to adequately identify himself as a paralegal, omitting the fact that he was not a licensed attorney, during communications with another attorney or an attorney’s law firm. Additionally, he contacted a party known to be represented, without obtaining consent from their counsel.
As part of the agreement, the State Bar dismissed allegations regarding ER 8.4(c) and alleged violations of the Missouri Rules of Professional Conduct. Restitution was not an issue in the case.
The Presiding Disciplinary Judge considered the American Bar Association’s Standards for Imposing Lawyer Sanctions in determining the sanctions. Factors included duties violated, Hatcher’s mental state, potential harm caused by the misconduct, and aggravating and mitigating circumstances.
Aggravating factors included prior disciplinary offenses, multiple offenses, and substantial experience in practicing law. Mitigating factors comprised personal or emotional problems, full and free disclosure to the disciplinary board, a cooperative attitude during proceedings, character or reputation, and remorse.
Hatcher is also required to comply with Rule 72 of the Arizona Rules of the Supreme Court, concerning notification of clients and other relevant parties. He must also pay $1,200.00 to cover the costs and expenses incurred by the State Bar of Arizona within 30 days.
According to Avvo, Mr. Hatcher is a real estate lawyer in Tucson, AZ. He acquired his law license in Arizona in 1994.
A copy of the original filing can be found here.
