Nashville-based law firm Bass Berry & Sims has been recognized with Profiles in Diversity Journal’s inaugural Diversity Team Award, the Nashville Post reports. The award recognizes those whose work supports and advances diversity and inclusion within their respective industries. “Our entire firm is our diversity team, as we are all ambassadors, allies and active participants in our inclusion and diversity initiatives and programs,” said Michele Bendekovic, director of diversity and inclusion at the firm. “Fairness, equal opportunity and responsibility guide us in building and sustaining a firm and culture that is inclusive and diverse. Embracing these principles strengthens who we are as a firm and enhances the services we provide to our clients and our communities …”

The Tennessee Supreme Court yesterday transferred the law license of New Jersey lawyer Deon Devall Owensby to disability inactive status pursuant to Section 27.4 of Tennessee Supreme Court Rule 9. Owensby may not practice law while on inactive status. He may return to the practice of law after reinstatement by the court by showing clear and convincing evidence that the disability has been removed and he is fit to resume the practice of law.

The Tennessee Supreme Court today disbarred Shelby County lawyer Paul James Springer and ordered him to pay restitution to three clients in the amount of $59,250. The court took the action based on three petitions for discipline that contained five complaints against him. The court found that Springer misappropriated settlement funds belonging to a client; engaged in criminal conduct as well as conduct involving dishonesty, deceit, misrepresentations and fraud; made material misrepresentations to clients; failed to reasonably communicate with clients; engaged in the unauthorized practice of law; failed to notify clients of his suspension; and failed to withdraw as attorney of record. His actions violated Rules of Professional Conduct 1.1, 1.2, 1.3, 1.4, 1.7, 1.15-16, 4.2, 5.5, 8.1 and 8.4 (a), (b), (c), and (g).

An in-person plea hearing will be held on May 27 at 2:30 p.m. for Danny Weld-Ebanks, who was indicted in September 2019 for vehicular manslaughter by recklessness for a crash that killed Matthew Kenigson, the spouse of Nashville General Sessions Judge Lynda Jones. The hearing will take place at the Montgomery County Court Center and will be presided over by Rutherford County Circuit Court Judge Barry Tidwell. The case was moved by agreement of the parties because of COVID-19 travel restrictions set by Fort Campbell, where Weld-Ebanks is stationed. Access to the courthouse will be limited pursuant to the judicial emergency order, but the Supreme Court is offering two options to media interested in covering the proceeding: a video recording available one hour after the hearing or one pool camera that would record from the courtroom. Media outlets should express their preference to Barbara Peck, 615-440-2555. A final decision about access will be made by noon on May 26.

Apperson Crump PLC, the oldest continuously operating law firm in Memphis, is seeking an associate attorney with two to five years experience in general litigation. Medical malpractice experience is a plus. The successful candidate will have excellent people skills and a proven ability to work in a deadline-driven environment. The firms says it offers a professionally challenging workplace, competitive compensation package and pleasant working environment. Please send resume, references and salary requirements to tbutler@appersoncrump.com.

The results of a survey conducted by Major, Lindsey & Africa and Above the Law in April to gauge the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on law firms are now available. The report, “The Unprecedented Challenge of COVID-19: Findings from the 2020 Major, Lindsey & Africa and Above the Law Law Firm Associate Survey,” offers a detailed picture of how law firms and individual associates are coping with the ongoing disruption and the prospect of lasting change. Topics covered include communication transparency, technological resources, firm culture and long-term effects on the profession. Download a copy of the report.

Tennessee Attorney General Herbert H. Slatery III has joined 38 attorneys general in urging Congress to help ensure all Americans have the home internet access they need to participate in telemedicine, teleschooling and telework. The group lauded independent efforts of various companies to increase access by waiving late fees or even providing free or discounted access to students and medical providers, but said such efforts are not sustainable. They instead argue for a national solution as part of any additional legislation that provides relief and resources related to the COVID-19 pandemic. Read the letter.

The Tennessee Bar Association will be closed Monday for the Memorial Day holiday. We will reopen at 8 a.m. CDT on Tuesday, though staff will continue to work remotely because of the COVID-19 pandemic. Access email addresses and direct lines for staff here.

The 26th annual "Ode to Otha" event, hosted by Neal & Harwell's Bill Ramsey, will be held virtually on May 30 from 2 to 9 p.m. The event celebrates the birthday of legendary musician Otha Turner while also raising money for Second Harvest Food Bank. The celebration is normally held in Nashville each year, but due to concerns surrounding the COVID-19 pandemic, the block party has gone virtual. See the lineup of musicians and get information on accessing the live stream. Donations to Second Harvest Food Bank can be made here.

Sen. Lamar Alexander told reporters today that university presidents across the state have concerns about facing legal actions for reopening in the fall, WPLN reports. The Republican senator, who serves as chairman of the U.S. Senate’s Education Committee, said that members of his party would push for liability protections for universities if a new COVID-19 relief bill is passed.  Alexander said a failure to do this could make what has been an already “difficult financial year” even more difficult. He also said more testing will be available for universities and businesses before the beginning of the fall semester.