South Bend, Indiana — An Indiana attorney has been suspended from practicing law following a ruling by the Indiana Supreme Court that he knowingly participated in the witnessing and submission of a forged will. The disciplinary action underscores the stringent standards the legal profession holds regarding ethical conduct and the severe implications of breaches within judicial processes.
J. David Keckley, a lawyer based in South Bend, encountered severe repercussions after he signed a will as a witness, despite being aware that it had not been correctly executed. This will, as adjudicated, had wrongfully appointed his paralegal as the personal representative of her deceased son’s estate while simultaneously disinheriting the son’s two daughters.
The backstory unraveled after the death of the paralegal’s son in April 2024, who died intestate — without a will. Subsequently, a will dated September 2023 surfaced, purportedly signed by the deceased. Court findings revealed that Keckley and another witness signed this document knowing its execution was fraudulent.
Upon processing this will through probate in May, Keckley filed an affidavit asserting its validity. However, this assertion was short-lived as he retracted the document a week later, admitting to the improper proceedings and requesting to annul the will.
Recognizing his misconduct, Keckley reported himself to the Indiana Supreme Court Disciplinary Commission the day after his retraction. In an attempt to mitigate the consequences of his actions, he financed the deceased’s funeral expenses and settled claims against the estate from his own resources. He also took measures to ensure that the remaining assets of the estate were rightly passed on to the son’s daughters.
The Indiana Supreme Court handed down a 120-day suspension commencing May 22, after which Keckley will be eligible for automatic reinstatement. Additionally, he is mandated to contribute $250 towards the costs incurred during the court proceedings.
Despite these events, Keckley did not immediately provide comments in response to inquiries on the matter.
This case, filed under “In the Matter of: J. David Keckley,” case number 25S-DI-59, starkly highlights the grave responsibilities attorneys bear in managing their duties lawfully and ethically. It also illustrates the potential personal and professional fallout from the breach of such duties, reinforcing the judiciary’s commitment to upholding legal integrity.
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