On Friday, August 29, 2025, the Supreme Court of New Jersey censured Attorney Richard J. Pepsny for significant misconduct during his prior suspension from practicing law. This disciplinary action was based on findings by the Disciplinary Review Board, which identified multiple violations of the Rules of Professional Conduct (RPC).
The case is entitled “In the Matter of Richard J. Pepsny,” with case no. 090611.
Pepsny faced censure for knowingly making false statements to both a tribunal and disciplinary authorities. Specifically, he violated RPC 3.3(a)(1), which prohibits false statements of material fact, RPC 8.1(a), related to making false statements to disciplinary bodies, RPC 8.4(c), concerning dishonesty and deceit, and RPC 8.4(d), regarding conduct detrimental to the administration of justice.
The misconduct dates back to his suspension, which began on August 15, 2022, due to previous infractions involving conflicts of interest and negligent misappropriation of escrow funds. During this suspension, Pepsny was required to cease using any bank accounts associated with his practice. However, just days before the suspension took effect, he submitted an affidavit falsely claiming that he had fully complied with this requirement.
Evidence showed that throughout his suspension, Pepsny continued to use his attorney business account to conduct personal and business transactions, which directly contravened the court’s orders. He issued checks and made electronic payments that misrepresented his status as an active attorney, thereby violating the strict terms of his suspension.
In December 2022, Pepsny further misled authorities in his petition for reinstatement by incorporating his false affidavit, which claimed compliance with the court rules. The Disciplinary Review Board found that these actions were deliberate attempts to misrepresent his situation and gain reinstatement under false pretenses.
Although some charges related to his amended petition for reinstatement were dismissed due to insufficient evidence, the Board determined that Pepsny’s systematic dishonesty warranted a censure. The decision emphasized that his repeated violations demonstrated a lack of respect for the legal profession and the ethical standards required of attorneys.
The Supreme Court’s censure serves as a formal reprimand, underscoring the serious consequences of unethical behavior within the legal profession. Pepsny has been ordered to reimburse the Disciplinary Oversight Committee for administrative costs associated with the investigation and proceedings.
According to Avvo.com, Mr. Pepsny is a residential real estate attorney in Red Bank, New Jersey. He attended the California Western School of Law. He acquired his law license in New Jersey in 1993.
A copy of the original filing can be found here.
