The Supreme Court of Tennessee has temporarily suspended Alan Christopher Norton from the practice of law upon finding that Mr. Norton poses a threat of substantial harm to the public.
The attorney, who was formerly a prosecutor in the Lookout Mountain Judicial District, was indicted on charges that he forged the name of a chancellor.
The high court said, "Section 12.3 of Supreme Court Rule 9 provides for the immediate summary suspension of an attorney’s license to practice law in cases where an attorney is deemed to pose a threat of substantial harm to the public.
"Mr. Norton is immediately precluded from accepting any new cases, and he must cease representing existing clients by January 16, 2024. After January 16, 2024, Mr. Norton shall not use any indicia of lawyer, legal assistant, or law clerk nor maintain a presence where the practice of law is conducted.
"Mr. Norton must notify all clients being represented in pending matters, as well as co-counsel and opposing counsel of the Supreme Court’s Order suspending his law license.
"Mr. Norton is required to deliver to all clients any papers or property to which they are entitled.
"Mr. Norton must comply with the requirements of Tennessee Supreme Court Rule 9, Sections 28 and 12.3(d), regarding the obligations and responsibilities of temporarily suspended attorneys and the procedure for reinstatement. This suspension remains in effect until dissolution or modification by the Supreme Court.
"Mr. Norton may, for good, cause request dissolution or modification of the suspension by petition to the Supreme Court."
One of his clients was former Chattanooga Police Chief Celeste Murphy, who is facing criminal charges in relation to her residency.