On Thursday, August 28, 2025, the Supreme Court of Florida approved a consent judgment that imposed a two-year suspension on attorney Kevin T. Vagovic following a detailed report by a referee concerning his professional misconduct.
The case is entitled “The Florida Bar v. Kevin T. Vagovic,” with case no. SC2024-1815.
The referee’s report outlined several findings of fact that established Vagovic’s failure to adhere to the ethical standards expected of attorneys. The report indicated that Vagovic did not file a response to The Florida Bar’s complaint, leading to an order of default on February 13, 2025, which deemed the allegations admitted.
The misconduct included a pattern of negligence and inappropriate conduct. Specifically, the report highlighted that Vagovic failed to provide diligent and competent representation to clients, neglected adequate communication, and missed scheduled hearings.
In one significant case, Vagovic engaged in inappropriate, sexually suggestive communications with a female client, Christine Paxton. After being hired by Paxton and her mother for a foreclosure case, Vagovic initiated a Facebook friendship that led to late-night messages of a sexual nature, despite Paxton initially declining his request. Pressure from Vagovic, combined with his suggestive messages, created an uncomfortable environment for Paxton, who ultimately terminated his services when she learned he had missed a critical court hearing.
In another instance, Vagovic was hired by Brigette Ruschmeier and her grandson, Christopher Parez, to represent them in an unlawful detainer case. Although both clients signed a fee contract, Vagovic only filed a notice of appearance for Ruschmeier, resulting in a default judgment against Parez. His lack of communication with Ruschmeier before mediation prevented him from having the necessary authority to resolve the dispute. When Vagovic attempted to continue the trial, the court denied his motion due to a prior scheduling conflict that he had known about for weeks. Ultimately, the court entered judgment against Ruschmeier, allowing for her eviction.
The report concluded that Vagovic’s actions constituted multiple violations of the Rules Regulating The Florida Bar, leading to the recommendation of his suspension.
The Supreme Court’s order requires Vagovic to cease all legal practice immediately, withdraw from all client representations, and eliminate any references to his attorney status from public materials. He must also notify all relevant parties of his suspension and submit an affidavit detailing those notifications within 30 days.
Additionally, Vagovic is required to pay $2,215.21 in disciplinary costs, which are non-dischargeable in any future bankruptcy proceedings. His failure to comply with these requirements will result in further disciplinary actions, reaffirming the court’s commitment to maintaining professional standards within the legal community.
The Disposition states:
“The Court approves the uncontested referee’s report and consent judgment as to discipline to be imposed under the stipulated terms below. Respondent is suspended from the practice of law for two years, effective immediately.”
According to Avvo.com, Mr. Vagovic is a litigation attorney in Daytona Beach, Florida. He attended the Florida Coastal School of Law, graduating in 2012. He acquired his law license in Florida in 2014.
A copy of the original filing can be found here.
