In a recent decision, the Appellate Division of the Supreme Court of the State of New York accepted attorney Andrew Marc Schwartz's resignation from the bar. This ruling, issued on May 7, 2026, affects Schwartz, who has been a practicing attorney since 2010. The court's acceptance of his resignation is significant as it marks the end of Schwartz's legal career in New York, although he has not faced any disciplinary actions.
The decision comes after Schwartz filed an application to resign for nondisciplinary reasons, which the Attorney Grievance Committee for the Third Judicial Department did not oppose. This case illustrates the process by which attorneys can resign from the bar without facing disciplinary measures.
Background
Andrew Marc Schwartz was admitted to practice law in New York in 2010. He has maintained a business address in Chicago, Illinois, as noted in the court filings. Schwartz sought to resign from the New York bar, and his application was considered by the Attorney Grievance Committee for the Third Judicial Department. The committee reviewed his affidavit and determined that there were no disciplinary issues preventing his resignation.
The Attorney Grievance Committee, represented by Monica A. Duffy and Alison M. Coan, did not oppose Schwartz's request to resign. This lack of opposition suggests that Schwartz's resignation was straightforward and unencumbered by any legal troubles. The court's decision to grant his application reflects the committee's assessment and Schwartz's eligibility to resign.
The Ruling
The court ruled unanimously to accept Schwartz's resignation. In the opinion, the judges stated, "Andrew Marc Schwartz's application for permission to resign is granted and his nondisciplinary resignation is accepted." This decision effectively removes Schwartz from the roll of attorneys and counselors-at-law in New York.
The ruling was issued by a panel of judges, including Garry, P.J., Clark, Ceresia, Powers, and Corcoran. The court ordered that Schwartz's name be stricken from the attorney roll immediately, and it prohibited him from practicing law in any capacity within New York. The judges also instructed Schwartz to surrender any Attorney Secure Pass issued to him within 30 days.
Impact
This ruling has immediate implications for Schwartz, who is now barred from practicing law in New York. It serves as a reminder of the procedures available for attorneys wishing to resign without facing disciplinary actions. The court's acceptance of Schwartz's resignation highlights that attorneys can leave the profession for personal or professional reasons without facing penalties, provided they follow the proper procedures.
The decision may also influence other attorneys considering resignation, as it underscores the importance of adhering to the rules set forth by the Attorney Grievance Committee. While this case does not set a new legal precedent, it reinforces existing protocols regarding attorney resignations in New York.
What's Next
Schwartz's resignation is effective immediately, and there is no indication that he plans to appeal the court's decision. Details were not available in the court filing regarding any related cases or future legal actions involving Schwartz.