On Thursday, October 10, 2024, the Supreme Court of Florida suspended attorney Joseph P. George Jr. from the practice of law for a period of three years. This decision followed the approval of a Report of Referee that accepted a consent judgment regarding allegations of misconduct related to George’s representation of elderly clients.

The case is entitled “The Florida Bar v. Joseph P. George, Jr.,” with case no. SC2023-1726.

The case against George originated when The Florida Bar filed a complaint on December 15, 2023, following an investigation into his conduct while representing elderly clients Larry Larsen and Nancy Crooks. According to the findings presented in the Report of Referee, George was retained by the couple’s friend, Zola Mae Blakeslee, in August 2021, shortly after they were placed under the care of Adult Protective Services due to self-neglect. Initially tasked with overseeing their welfare and finances, George was later granted durable power of attorney by the couple.

Throughout his representation, George was found to have engaged in a series of actions that raised significant ethical concerns. Notably, he facilitated a beneficiary designation that named himself as the sole beneficiary of the couple’s joint bank account, which held assets exceeding $2 million. Although the respondent did not suggest he be named as a beneficiary, he did not decline the designation either nor counsel his clients that same resulted in a conflict of interest. This designation was signed by Larsen and Crooks, but it did not identify George as their attorney, instead labeling him as a “friend.” The circumstances surrounding this designation drew scrutiny, particularly as both clients were suffering from cognitive decline, raising questions about their capacity to make such decisions.

The investigation by The Florida Bar revealed that George had not only failed to adequately disclose the conflict of interest but also acted in a manner that was prejudicial to the administration of justice. The referee’s report recommended that George be found guilty of violating several rules regulating The Florida Bar, including rules against conflicts of interest and dishonesty.

On October 10, 2024, the Supreme Court of Florida approved the stipulation of the uncontested Report of Referee and ordered George’s suspension to take effect in thirty days. The court stipulated that if George provided written notification indicating he would cease practicing law immediately, the suspension could take effect sooner. The court’s decision emphasized the need for George to protect the interests of his existing clients during the transition period.

In addition to the suspension, the court mandated several immediate actions for George. He was prohibited from accepting new clients, initiating litigation, or withdrawing funds from any trust accounts related to his legal practice during the suspension. Furthermore, George was required to inform all relevant parties—including courts, clients, and co-counsel—of his suspension and to cease presenting himself as a member of The Florida Bar.

The court also ordered George to cease all fiduciary duties, including his role as a personal representative, guardian, or trustee, and to provide an affidavit confirming compliance with the suspension order. The total costs associated with the proceedings, amounting to $1,250, were also charged to George.

According to avvo.com, Mr. George Jr. is a guardianship attorney in Miami, Florida. He attended the Samford University, Cumberland School of Law, graduating in 1985. He acquired his law license in Florida in 1994.

A copy of the original filing can be found here.