Defense attorney suspended three years for spending clients’ cash

A Denver defense attorney is facing a three-year suspension of his law license after confessing to using over $70,000 of client funds to cover personal and firm expenses.

Adam Tucker, a seasoned lawyer with 22 years of experience in Colorado, must conclude ongoing client cases by June 13 before beginning his suspension period.

His attorney, David Kaplan of Stimson LaBranche Hubbard in Denver, argues that the punishment is excessive considering Tucker’s conduct.

Tucker’s financial troubles began in 2023 when he and his law firm, Tucker Grosgebauer, were under strain due to his divorce and efforts to expand the practice with experienced attorneys.

To alleviate the financial pressure, Tucker diverted client funds to cover expenses, resulting in a shortfall of over $70,000 in the firm’s trust account.

Although Tucker later replenished the trust account and no clients suffered financial losses, the Colorado Office of Attorney Regulation still recommended a suspension rather than disbarment.

State Disciplinary Judge Bryon Large ultimately imposed a three-year suspension on April 11, emphasizing that Tucker’s legal abilities were not in question.

Kaplan reiterates that Tucker’s legal representation was always of high quality, and his clients received excellent service despite the financial misconduct.

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