Representation of HM Attorney General Re: Steenson (Royal Court : Hearing (Civil) : Le Cocq : Disciplinary) [2026] JRC 021 (20 January 2026)

Representation of HM Attorney General Re: Steenson (Royal Court : Hearing (Civil) : Le Cocq : Disciplinary) [2026] JRC 021 (20 January 2026)

Given the seriousness of the respondent's offending, his prior disciplinary history, and the need to maintain public confidence in the legal profession, but in the absence of dishonesty in professional duties and in light of genuine remorse and steps taken to address alcohol issues, the appropriate sanction is suspension from practice for the maximum period of twelve months rather than striking off.

Citation
[2026] JRC 021
Parties
Applicant: Attorney General; Respondent: David Samuel Steenson
Jurisdiction
Jersey
Judgment Date
20 January 2026
Procedural Posture
Disciplinary Proceedings / Sanction Determination After Conviction and Appeal
Outcome
suspension from practice for twelve months
Legal Topics
Professional Misconduct, Drunk Driving, Sanctions for Advocates, Public Confidence in Legal Profession
Professional Discipline Criminal Law Professional Misconduct Drunk Driving Sanctions for Advocates Public Confidence in Legal Profession

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Parties

Attorney General

Applicant

David Samuel Steenson

Respondent

Procedural Posture

Disciplinary Proceedings / Sanction Determination After Conviction and Appeal

Legal Issues

  1. 1 What is the appropriate professional sanction for an advocate convicted of serious motoring offences, including drunk driving and failing to stop after an accident, in light of prior disciplinary history?

Ratio Decidendi

Given the seriousness of the respondent's offending, his prior disciplinary history, and the need to maintain public confidence in the legal profession, but in the absence of dishonesty in professional duties and in light of genuine remorse and steps taken to address alcohol issues, the appropriate sanction is suspension from practice for the maximum period of twelve months rather than striking off.

Court Disposition

suspension from practice for twelve months

Orders

  • The respondent is suspended from practice as an advocate for twelve months, commencing from the date of his release from prison.