On Friday, February 7, 2025, the Supreme Court of Indiana suspended Attorney Dean E. McConnell from practicing law for a minimum of one year due to professional misconduct. This decision follows a review of findings from the hearing officer, Judge Brian D. Hill.
The case is entitled “In the Matter of Dean E. McConnell,” with case no. 24S-DI-99.
In February 2023, McConnell pled guilty to operating a vehicle while intoxicated (OWI), a misdemeanor, in Anderson City Court. He failed to report this conviction to the Indiana Supreme Court Disciplinary Commission, which is a requirement for attorneys found guilty of criminal offenses. McConnell has a history of legal issues, including previous OWI and public intoxication convictions, and has faced disciplinary actions in the past.
The court determined that McConnell violated Indiana Professional Conduct Rule 8.4(b), which addresses criminal acts that negatively impact an attorney’s trustworthiness and fitness to practice law. Additionally, he breached Admission and Discipline Rule 23(11.1)(a)(1)(ii) by not notifying the Commission of his conviction.
As a result of his actions, the Court suspended McConnell from practicing law, effective immediately. After the one-year suspension period, he may apply for reinstatement, contingent upon meeting specific conditions. These include paying the costs associated with the disciplinary proceedings, addressing the reasons for his suspension, and demonstrating clear evidence of remorse and rehabilitation.
The Disposition states:
“For Respondent’s professional misconduct, the Court suspends Respondent from the practice of law in this state for a period of not less than one year, without automatic reinstatement, effective immediately.”
According to Avvo.com, Mr. McConnell is a patent infringement attorney in McCordsville, Indiana. He attended the Temple University – James E. Beasley School of Law, graduating in 1997. He acquired his law license in Indiana in the same year.
A copy of the original filing can be found here.
