The Kentucky Supreme Court has denied a request from the Kentucky Bar Association (KBA) to permanently disbar attorney Thomas Duane Juanso. This decision, issued on October 22, 2026, comes after Juanso faced multiple disciplinary charges and was previously suspended from practicing law.
The ruling is significant as it highlights the procedural complexities involved in attorney disciplinary actions. It also impacts the future of Juanso's legal career and the standards for reinstatement after suspension.
Background
Thomas Duane Juanso was admitted to practice law in Kentucky on October 15, 2010. His bar roster address is 7103 Woolrich Road, Louisville, Kentucky 40207. The KBA filed a six-count disciplinary charge against him on November 17, 2020. The charges included failing to diligently perform work for clients and failing to communicate adequately with them.
After Juanso did not respond to the charges, the Kentucky Supreme Court indefinitely suspended him from practicing law on June 17, 2021. The case progressed to the Board of Governors, which found Juanso guilty of five counts of misconduct. The Board recommended a 90-day suspension, but the Supreme Court later imposed a 180-day suspension instead, requiring Juanso to return client files and pay costs associated with the disciplinary action.
The Ruling
In the recent ruling, the Kentucky Supreme Court addressed the KBA's motion for permanent disbarment. The court stated, "The KBA’s motion for permanent disbarment pursuant to SCR 3.167(5) is DENIED." The court explained that Juanso's indefinite suspension was superseded by the 180-day suspension, which constituted a final adjudication of the charges against him.
The court noted that if Juanso wishes to be reinstated, he must follow the reinstatement process outlined in SCR 3.502. This ruling indicates that while Juanso's past misconduct was serious, the procedural history of his case did not warrant permanent disbarment.
Impact
This decision has implications for Juanso's future as a practicing attorney. Although he is not permanently disbarred, he remains under a 180-day suspension and must adhere to specific conditions if he seeks reinstatement. The ruling emphasizes the importance of procedural fairness in disciplinary matters and may influence how similar cases are handled in the future.
Additionally, this ruling may affect the KBA's approach to future disciplinary actions, as it highlights the necessity for thorough procedural adherence when seeking severe penalties like permanent disbarment.
What's Next
Juanso can seek reinstatement after his suspension period. If he chooses to do so, he will need to follow the reinstatement process outlined by the court. The KBA may oppose his reinstatement, which could lead to further legal proceedings.