On Monday, February 24, 2025, the District of Columbia Court of Appeals suspended attorney Thomas J. Finn on an interim basis due to disciplinary actions taken against him in Arizona.
The case is entitled “In the Matter of Thomas J. Finn,” with case no. 2024-D224.
This decision follows a previous ruling by the Arizona Supreme Court, which issued a 60-day suspension against Finn for violations of the Rules of Professional Conduct. Fin faced suspension after it was revealed that he engaged in the unauthorized practice of law while his legal license was suspended. In Arizona, his law license had been administratively suspended since February 26, 2021, due to his failure to comply with continuing legal education (CLE) requirements. Despite being aware of this suspension, he continued to serve as in-house counsel for the Raytheon Company, offering legal advice and representation until he took a voluntary leave of absence on September 3, 2024.
The disciplinary proceedings in Arizona were initiated after Finn self-reported his unauthorized practice to the State Bar, acknowledging his misconduct. Following this, the State Bar formally filed a complaint against him, which led to disciplinary actions. The Presiding Disciplinary Judge, Margaret H. Downie, emphasized the importance of adhering to the professional conduct standards expected of attorneys. Finn was ordered to pay $1,200 in costs related to the disciplinary process, which is due within 30 days of the judgment.
The Arizona Supreme Court’s decision to suspend Finn was made on November 13, 2024, and it was retroactive to September 3, 2024. This suspension not only addressed Finn’s specific misconduct but also underscored the legal profession’s commitment to maintaining integrity and compliance with established conduct rules.
As a result of the suspension in Arizona, the D.C. Bar took action, leading to the interim suspension of Finn’s license to practice law in the District of Columbia. He is now subject to the conditions outlined by both the Arizona and D.C. Bar regulations. Following the completion of his suspension in Arizona, Finn may seek reinstatement, provided he meets all necessary conditions set forth by the Supreme Court.
According to martindale.com, Mr. Finn attended the University of Nebraska at Lincoln, graduating in 1992. He acquired his law license in the District of Columbia in 1995.
A copy of the original filing can be found here.
