Ethics
Prominent New Orleans attorney disbarred; forged signatures on divorce documents cited
A prominent New Orleans attorney is no longer allowed to practice law in Louisiana and will not be eligible for reinstatement after disciplinary proceedings tied to his conduct in a divorce and child custody case. (Image from Shutterstock)
A prominent New Orleans attorney is no longer allowed to practice law in Louisiana and will not be eligible for reinstatement after disciplinary proceedings tied to his conduct in a divorce and child custody case.
In an April 9 ruling, the Louisiana Supreme Court also barred the lawyer, Lionel “Lon” Burns Jr. of New Orleans, from ever seeking readmission, citing a long pattern of misconduct.
The state supreme court said Burns obtained a default divorce judgment using false allegations and forged signatures and then refused to cooperate in efforts to vacate the judgment. The state supreme court found that Burns’ conduct undermined the administration of justice, wasted judicial resources and eroded confidence in court proceedings.
In addition, the Louisiana Supreme Court found that Burns gave false testimony under oath and failed to cooperate with the state’s disciplinary counsel office.
Burns, who started practicing law in Louisiana in 1998, had also been active in local politics.
WDSU previously reported on the disbarment. NOLA.com also had coverage.
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