On Wednesday, October 8, 2025, the Tennessee Board of Professional Responsibility announced the permanent disbarment of attorney Joel David Ragland from practicing law in Tennessee. The disbarment, effective immediately, was ordered by the Tennessee Supreme Court.
The case is entitled “In the Matter of Joel David Ragland.”
Ragland consented to the disbarment, submitting a Declaration in support of Disbarment by Consent, as outlined in Tennessee Supreme Court Rule 9, Section 23.1. This action comes as Ragland acknowledged he could not adequately defend himself against allegations detailed in disciplinary petition No. 2024-3419-6-DB.
The central charge against Ragland involves the misappropriation of funds. Specifically, he is accused of writing unauthorized checks from his law firm’s trust account, a violation of Rule 8.4 of the Rules of Professional Conduct, which addresses misconduct.
As a result of the disbarment, Ragland is obligated to adhere to the stipulations of Tennessee Supreme Court Rule 9, Section 28 (2024), which outlines the duties and responsibilities of disbarred attorneys. Furthermore, he is permanently ineligible for reinstatement to practice law in the state of Tennessee.
According to Avvo.com, Mr. Ragland was a probate attorney in Clarksville, Tennessee. He attended the University of Memphis – Cecil C. Humphreys School of Law, graduating in 1986. He acquired his law license in the same year.
A copy of the original filing can be found here.
