A Florida attorney has been suspended on an emergency basis following allegations of abandoning numerous clients after collecting legal fees. The Florida Supreme Court’s decision underscores the state’s commitment to maintaining ethical standards within the legal profession.
In a recent disciplinary action, the court suspended attorney Jeffrey Barnes of Boca Raton for three years, effective October 27. Barnes faced reciprocal discipline matters in Tennessee and Colorado, as well as misconduct in Florida, including dishonesty, impugning the integrity of a judge, neglecting clients, and failing to refund unused fees. ([floridabar.org](https://www.floridabar.org/the-florida-bar-news/october-1-2025-disciplinary-actions/?utm_source=openai))
Similarly, attorney Timothy Wayne Terry of Orlando was accused of professional misconduct across six client cases. The Florida Bar’s formal complaint alleges that Terry accepted legal fees but failed to maintain communication, manage legal matters diligently, and deliver contracted services. ([alabnews.com](https://alabnews.com/attorney-timothy-wayne-terry-accused-of-misconduct-in-multiple-client-cases-by-florida-bar/?utm_source=openai))
In another case, attorney Xenia Hernández of Miami was suspended for misappropriating client funds and mismanaging her trust account. An audit revealed shortages ranging from $169,000 to $381,000, leading to her emergency suspension. ([alabnews.com](https://alabnews.com/supreme-court-of-florida-suspends-attorney-xenia-hernandez-over-misappropriation-of-client-funds/?utm_source=openai))
These actions reflect the Florida Bar’s ongoing efforts to uphold the integrity of the legal profession by addressing attorneys who fail to meet ethical obligations. Legal professionals are reminded of the importance of adhering to the highest standards to maintain public trust.