On Thursday, September 12, 2024, the Supreme Court of the State of New York, Appellate Division, First Judicial Department publicly censured Attorney Davion Shante Ebony Chism for professional misconduct stemming from falsifying medical records while serving in the US Navy in 2017.
The case is entitled “In the Matter of Davion Shante Ebony Chism,” with case no. 2023-01532.
Chism pleaded guilty in 2019 to wrongful interference with an adverse administrative proceeding, false swearing, and making a false official statement for falsifying medical records to excuse inadvertently ingesting illicit drugs and providing false documents to a military administrative board. She received a sentence including a bad-conduct discharge from the Navy.
The Attorney Grievance Committee brought a proceeding against Chism, determining her military crimes were considered “serious offenses” under New York state law. Rather than contest the charges, Chism jointly requested a public censure with the Committee.
In their motion, Chism conditionally admitted to violating conduct rules. Mitigating factors included untreated mental health issues that contributed to her misconduct at the time. It was noted her actions were unrelated to legal practice and didn’t harm clients.
The Court considered precedents involving similar misconduct addressed with censure. Chism’s legal reputation, educational accomplishments, family support, and exemplary military service prior were also cited. The motion to permanently seal some exhibits related to her personal mental health was also granted.
The Disposition states:
“Wherefore, it is Ordered that the Committee’s motion pursuant to 22 NYCRR 1240.8 (a) (5) imposing discipline by consent is granted, and It is further Ordered that respondent, Davion Shante Ebony Chism, is publicly censured for her misconduct.”
According to the filing, Ms. Chism acquired her law license in New York in 2019.
A copy of the original filing can be found here.
