The New York Appellate Division has reinstated attorney Ronald B. Sherman, who had been suspended from practicing law since September 2022. This decision, made on August 27, 2026, affects not only Sherman but also the legal community and the clients he serves. The ruling highlights the court's evaluation of an attorney's fitness to practice law after a suspension.
The case, titled Matter of Attorneys in Violation of Judiciary Law § 468-a (PM-188-26), involved a motion by Sherman seeking his reinstatement. The court's decision is significant as it outlines the criteria that must be met for an attorney to return to practice after suspension.
Background
Ronald B. Sherman was previously suspended by the Appellate Division of the Supreme Court of the State of New York due to violations of the Judiciary Law. The specific details of the original suspension were not included in the court's recent opinion, but it is clear that the Attorney Grievance Committee for the Third Judicial Department was involved in the proceedings.
The path to reinstatement began when Sherman filed a motion on June 18, 2026, accompanied by an affidavit and supporting documents. The Attorney Grievance Committee responded to this motion, providing additional correspondence on July 21, 2026. The court had to consider whether Sherman had met the necessary conditions for reinstatement.
The Ruling
The court ruled in favor of Sherman, granting his motion for reinstatement. The judges involved in this decision included Pritzker, J.P., Reynolds Fitzgerald, Fisher, Mackey, and Ryba. The court determined that Sherman had provided clear and convincing evidence to support his case.
The court stated, "respondent has satisfied the requirements of Rules of the Appellate Division, Third Department (22 NYCRR) § 806.16 (c) (5)," and found that he had complied with the order of suspension.
Additionally, the court noted that Sherman demonstrated the requisite character and fitness to practice law. They concluded that reinstating him would be in the public interest, which is a crucial factor in such decisions.
Impact
This ruling has important implications for Sherman and the legal community. For Sherman, it means he can return to practicing law immediately, allowing him to serve his clients once again. The decision also sends a message about the court's willingness to reinstate attorneys who can prove their compliance with disciplinary measures and demonstrate their fitness to practice.
Moreover, this case may serve as a precedent for other attorneys seeking reinstatement after suspension. It emphasizes the importance of meeting specific criteria and the need to show that reinstatement aligns with the public interest.
What's Next
Details were not available in the court filing regarding whether Sherman plans to appeal any aspects of the original suspension or if there are related cases pending. However, with his reinstatement, he is now eligible to resume his legal practice.