On Monday, July 7, 2025, the Michigan Attorney Discipline Board issued a notice announcing the suspension of attorney Thomas D. Noonan’s license to practice law for two years, effective June 30, 2025. Noonan faced disciplinary action following a stipulation with the Grievance Administrator, approved by the Attorney Grievance Commission and Tri-County Hearing Panel #10.
The case is entitled “In the Matter of Thomas D. Noonan,” with case no. 24-95-GA.
The disciplinary action stemmed from a two-count formal complaint. In the first count, Noonan was hired to represent clients in a breach of contract and conversion lawsuit, but failed to respond to a motion and created a fake settlement agreement. He admitted to being dishonest with his clients, which later resulted in a garnishment against them.
In the second count, while representing an incarcerated client in a criminal case, Noonan was recorded smuggling cigarettes during a jail visit. Jail phone calls, unprotected due to his failure to register his number as privileged, revealed discussions about smuggling additional items, including over-the-counter medication, cigarettes, and vape pens. Noonan admitted to delivering six to eight cigarettes to clients during the visit.
Based on Noonan’s no-contest pleas, the panel found violations of multiple Michigan Rules of Professional Conduct, including neglecting a legal matter, failing to act diligently, not keeping clients informed, engaging in dishonest conduct, and actions prejudicial to justice that harmed the legal profession’s reputation.
The panel ordered a two-year suspension of Noonan’s license, restitution of $2,500 to the State Bar of Michigan’s Client Protection Fund, which had compensated a complainant, and payment of $1,142.62 in costs.
According to Avvo.com, Mr. Noonan is a business attorney in Canton, Michigan. He attended the Northwestern University School of Law. He acquired his law license in Michigan in 1999.
A copy of the original filing can be found here.
