On Thursday, February 19, 2026, the Supreme Court of Kentucky approved the reinstatement of Attorney H. Harris Pepper, Jr. to the practice of law. Pepper had faced a five-year suspension, retroactive to February 27, 2020, due to his involvement in a scheme to launder proceeds from an illegal gambling operation.
The case is entitled “In the Matter of H. Harris Pepper, Jr.,” with case no. 2026-SC-0005-KB.
The Court’s decision follows a recommendation from the Character and Fitness Committee. The Kentucky Bar Association’s Bar Counsel did not oppose the reinstatement, and both parties submitted a joint proposal that the Committee unanimously adopted.
During his suspension, Pepper complied with the conditions of his federal court guilty plea, including probation and a $100,000 fine, and the terms of his legal suspension. He demonstrated remorse for his actions and actively participated in the Kentucky Lawyer Assistance Program (KYLAP). He also worked for Summit Title Company, LLC, owned by his wife, and engaged in community service, including involvement with LifeWorks for Autism.
Pepper successfully passed the bar examination on December 16, 2025, with the Board of Bar Examiners certifying this to the Court on January 5, 2026. His reinstatement is contingent upon two conditions: payment of $166.16 in proceedings costs and the satisfaction of any outstanding Bar dues or Continuing Legal Education requirements.
According to Martindale.com, Mr. Pepper Jr. attended the University of Kentucky, graduating in 1991. He acquired his law license in Kentucky in the same year.
A copy of the original filing can be found here.
