In the Matter of Robert James Hardy

Summary

The Indiana Supreme Court held that a lawyer acts in a professional capacity under Rule 8.4(g) when the challenged conduct, viewed objectively and in context, bears a substantial connection to the lawyer’s practice of law or professional role in the legal system. Applying that standard, the Court found by clear and convincing evidence that Robert James Hardy made multiple statements manifesting bias or prejudice based on race, gender, disability, and socioeconomic status, in addition to violating two other professional-conduct rules. The Court imposed a 180-day suspension with automatic reinstatement. Justice Goff concurred in part and dissented in part, believing the suspension should be imposed without automatic reinstatement.