Lawyer Allowed Back After Firm’s Former Client Dismissed

A lawyer who was disqualified because his firm once represented an opponent can rejoin the case now that the opponent has been dismissed, the Court of Appeals of Utah ruled Apr. 12.

Disqualification orders may successfully be challenged if the rationale for disqualification no longer applies, the case illustrates.

Tyler LLoyd Peterson performed managerial duties in exchange for cheaper rent at Stoneridge Apartments, the court said. He pleaded guilty to sexually assaulting a tenant, a member of the Newton family. The Newtons sued Peterson and Stoneridge for civil liability based on Peterson’s “intentional tortious actions,” the court said.

In 2014, ...