Judges – Discipline – Definite Suspension – Perceived Threats

After becoming visibly agitated and disruptive during a meeting, the respondent-magistrate told a colleague—who had told respondent to follow the chief magistrate’s direction—not to disrespect him again. He then returned to the meeting room, startled the chief magistrate, hit his hands together, and loudly requested that going forward the chief magistrate should show him respect; this caused the chief magistrate concern for her physical well-being, and she reported the incident to the Office of Disciplinary Counsel. Approximately a month later, respondent told a clerk that the chief magistrate “does not know who she is dealing with and she will regret doing this.” Respondent violated canons regarding the avoidance of impropriety and cooperation with other judges and court officials.

Respondent is suspended from office for six months retroactive to July 10, 2020, the date of his interim suspension. Respondent shall also complete at least 15 hours of anger management counseling.

In re Rivers (Lawyers Weekly No. 010-046-21, 3 pp.) (Per curiam) John Nichols and Carey Taylor Markel for the Office of Disciplinary Counsel; Jerry Fletcher Rivers, pro se. S.C. S. Ct.