On Thursday, September 26, 2024, the Supreme Court of Kentucky suspended attorney William David Rye from practicing law for two years.
The case is entitled “In the Matter of William David Rye,” with case no. 2024-SC-0375-KB.
The charges cited Kentucky Rules of Professional Conduct SCR 3.130(1.3), SCR 3.130(8.4)(c), SCR 3.130(1.4)(a)(3), SCR 3.130(1.16)(d), SCR 3.130(8.1)(b).
The case involved disciplinary charges against Rye related to his representation of a client, Scotty Watson, in a criminal case in 2019. Rye failed to file an appellate brief on Watson’s behalf, resulting in Watson’s appeal being dismissed. Rye lied to Watson, telling him the brief had been filed when it had not. He also failed to inform Watson when the appeal was dismissed.
Rye has a history of prior discipline with the Kentucky Bar Association dating back to 2007, including private admonition, two public reprimands, and multiple suspensions. Most recently, he was suspended for 181 days in June 2023 for violating probation terms.
Rye admitted to violating Kentucky rules of professional conduct regarding diligence, honesty, client communication, and obligations upon case termination. This includes failing to return Watson’s client file. He also failed to fully respond to requests for information from the KBA regarding Watson’s complaint.
The KBA and Rye jointly proposed a two-year suspension. The Supreme Court agreed this was appropriate, citing past cases with similar misconduct and disciplinary histories that also resulted in two-year suspensions. The court noted Rye’s admissions and participation.
Rye must now pay $751.33 in costs. The suspension means he cannot practice law or represent clients in Kentucky for two years, after which he can seek reinstatement.
According to avvo.com, Mr. Rye is an attorney in Hopkinsville, Kentucky. He acquired his law license in Kentucky in 2000.
A copy of the original filing can be found here.
