The New York Appellate Division of the Supreme Court has accepted the resignation of attorney John Owen Butler Wray. This decision, made on October 15, 2026, allows Wray to resign from the New York bar for nondisciplinary reasons. The ruling affects Wray, who was admitted to practice law in New York in 2018, and prohibits him from practicing law in the state.
Wray's resignation is significant as it highlights the process by which attorneys can leave the bar without facing disciplinary actions. The Attorney Grievance Committee for the Third Judicial Department did not oppose Wray's application, indicating that his resignation was amicable and without controversy.
Background
John Owen Butler Wray, who is based in Walpole, Massachusetts, was admitted to the New York bar in 2018. His business address is listed in Boston, Massachusetts, with the Office of Court Administration. Wray filed an application to resign from the New York bar on August 17, 2026, stating nondisciplinary reasons for his decision.
The Attorney Grievance Committee for the Third Judicial Department, which oversees attorney conduct in New York, reviewed Wray's application. They advised the court that they did not oppose his resignation. This lack of opposition suggests that Wray's decision to resign was not due to any legal or ethical violations.
The Ruling
The court ruled to grant Wray's application for resignation, stating, "Wray is eligible to resign for nondisciplinary reasons." The judges involved in the ruling were Pritzker, J.P., Ceresia, Fisher, Powers, and Cocoran, JJ. The court ordered that Wray's name be stricken from the roll of attorneys and counselors-at-law in New York, effective immediately.
Additionally, the court ordered Wray to refrain from practicing law in any capacity within the state. This includes acting as a principal, agent, clerk, or employee of another attorney. Wray is also forbidden from appearing before any court or public authority as an attorney or counselor-at-law.
Impact
This ruling has immediate implications for Wray, who must now cease all legal practices in New York. It also serves as a reminder of the procedures available for attorneys wishing to resign from the bar. Resignation for nondisciplinary reasons allows attorneys to exit the profession without the stigma of disciplinary action, which can be beneficial for their future career opportunities.
Furthermore, this case sets a precedent for other attorneys who may consider resigning under similar circumstances. The court's acceptance of Wray's resignation without opposition from the Attorney Grievance Committee indicates a streamlined process for nondisciplinary resignations, potentially encouraging more attorneys to pursue this option if they choose to leave the profession.
What's Next
Wray's resignation is effective immediately, and he is required to surrender any Attorney Secure Pass issued to him within 30 days. There are no indications in the court filing that Wray plans to appeal this decision. Details were not available in the court filing regarding any related cases.