A New York court has accepted the resignation of attorney Bonnie Ginzburg Erbe, who sought to leave the bar for nondisciplinary reasons. This decision affects her ability to practice law in New York and comes after the Attorney Grievance Committee (AGC) expressed no opposition to her application. The ruling is significant as it highlights the procedures for attorneys wishing to resign from the bar without facing disciplinary action.

On June 25, 2026, the Appellate Division of the Supreme Court of the State of New York issued its ruling in the Matter of Erbe, under docket number PM-130-26. The court's decision allows Erbe to resign and removes her from the official list of attorneys authorized to practice law in the state. This ruling is particularly noteworthy as it demonstrates the court's adherence to established rules governing attorney resignations.

Background

Bonnie Ginzburg Erbe was admitted to practice law in New York in 1988. She has maintained a business address in Washington, D.C. Erbe's decision to resign comes after years of practice, but the specific reasons for her resignation were not detailed in the court filing. The Attorney Grievance Committee for the Third Judicial Department, which oversees attorney conduct and discipline, reviewed her application and did not oppose her request to resign.

The process for an attorney to resign for nondisciplinary reasons is outlined in the Rules for Attorney Disciplinary Matters. Under these rules, an attorney can seek permission to resign without facing disciplinary actions, provided they meet certain criteria. Erbe submitted an affidavit on April 26, 2026, which was part of her application for resignation. The AGC's lack of opposition indicates that there were no outstanding issues regarding her conduct that would have otherwise prevented her from resigning.

The Ruling

The court ruled in favor of Erbe's application, stating, "we grant her application and accept her resignation." This decision was made by a panel of judges, including Garry, P.J., Aarons, Reynolds Fitzgerald, Corcoran, and Ryba, JJ. The ruling officially strikes Erbe's name from the roll of attorneys and counselors-at-law in New York, effective immediately.

Furthermore, the court ordered that Erbe must refrain from practicing law in any capacity within the state. This includes acting as a principal, agent, clerk, or employee of another attorney or firm. The court emphasized that Erbe is forbidden from appearing as an attorney in any court or public authority and must not give legal opinions or advice. Additionally, she is required to surrender any Attorney Secure Pass she holds within 30 days of the decision.

Impact

This ruling has immediate implications for Bonnie Ginzburg Erbe, who can no longer practice law in New York. It underscores the importance of following proper procedures for resignation, particularly for attorneys who wish to leave the profession without facing disciplinary measures. The AGC's lack of opposition suggests that Erbe's decision was amicable, and the court's acceptance of her resignation reflects a system that allows for orderly transitions out of the legal profession.

Going forward, this decision may serve as a precedent for other attorneys considering resignation for nondisciplinary reasons. It highlights the process and the importance of obtaining the AGC's approval, which can facilitate a smoother exit from the bar. The ruling also reinforces the court's authority to regulate attorney conduct and ensure that those who resign do so in compliance with established rules.

What's Next

Details were not available in the court filing regarding whether Erbe plans to appeal this decision or if there are any related cases pending. However, as it stands, her resignation from the New York bar is effective immediately, and she is required to comply with the court's orders.