In a recent ruling, the Appellate Division of the Supreme Court of the State of New York accepted the resignation of attorney Michael R. Pichowicz. This decision, made on April 30, 2026, affects Pichowicz, who is now prohibited from practicing law in New York. The court's ruling is significant as it underscores the process for attorneys seeking to resign from the bar for nondisciplinary reasons.
Pichowicz, who was admitted to practice law in New York in 2020, submitted his resignation application without any disciplinary issues. The Attorney Grievance Committee for the Third Judicial Department (AGC) did not oppose his resignation, allowing the court to move forward with the decision.
The case, identified as docket number PM-88-26, highlights the procedures attorneys must follow when resigning from the bar. The ruling emphasizes that even without disciplinary actions, attorneys must formally apply to resign, ensuring that they cease all legal practices in the state.
Background
Michael R. Pichowicz, who resides in East Hanover, New Jersey, sought to resign from the New York bar for nondisciplinary reasons, as outlined in the Rules for Attorney Disciplinary Matters. The AGC, responsible for overseeing attorney conduct, reviewed his application and found no objections to his request.
The court's decision came after Pichowicz submitted an affidavit on March 16, 2026, which was filed two days later. The AGC's response, dated April 24, 2026, confirmed that they did not oppose his resignation. This streamlined process indicates a cooperative relationship between Pichowicz and the AGC.
The case reached the Appellate Division after Pichowicz's application was submitted for consideration. The court's role was to evaluate whether his reasons for resigning met the criteria set forth in the relevant rules governing attorney conduct in New York.
The Ruling
The court ruled in favor of Pichowicz's request, stating, "Upon reading Pichowicz's affidavit... and having determined that Pichowicz is eligible to resign for nondisciplinary reasons, we grant his application and accept his resignation." This ruling was made by a panel of judges including Pritzker, Ceresia, McShan, Powers, and Ryba.
As a result of the court's decision, Pichowicz's name has been stricken from the roll of attorneys and counselors-at-law in New York. The ruling also commands him to refrain from practicing law in any capacity within the state, effectively ending his legal career in New York.
Impact
The acceptance of Pichowicz's resignation has broader implications for other attorneys considering similar actions. It reinforces the importance of following proper procedures when resigning from the bar, even when no disciplinary actions are involved. Attorneys must be aware that they cannot simply stop practicing law without formally resigning, as this could lead to potential legal issues.
This ruling may also serve as a precedent for future cases involving attorney resignations. It clarifies the process and requirements necessary for attorneys seeking to leave the profession without facing disciplinary actions. As a result, other attorneys may feel more confident in pursuing resignation when they believe it is in their best interest.
What's Next
Details were not available in the court filing regarding any potential appeals. However, since Pichowicz's resignation was accepted for nondisciplinary reasons, it is unlikely that he will pursue further legal action. There are no related cases pending that were mentioned in the opinion.