The Appellate Division of the Supreme Court of the State of New York has accepted the resignation of attorney Nancy Ellen Schoep. This decision, made on October 15, 2026, allows Schoep to leave the New York bar for nondisciplinary reasons. The ruling affects Schoep, who has been a practicing attorney since 1988, and it highlights the process for attorneys wishing to resign without facing disciplinary action.
Schoep's resignation is significant as it underscores the legal framework that allows attorneys to step away from their practice without facing penalties. This can occur for various personal or professional reasons, and it is an option available to attorneys who meet specific criteria. The ruling also serves as a reminder of the responsibilities attorneys have to the legal profession and the public.
Background
Nancy Ellen Schoep has been a member of the New York bar since her admission in 1988. She has maintained her business address in the Hamlet of Earlton, Greene County. The Attorney Grievance Committee for the Third Judicial Department, which oversees attorney conduct in that region, has been involved in the process regarding Schoep's resignation.
The dispute arose when Schoep submitted her application to resign from the bar. The Attorney Grievance Committee reviewed her application and determined that they did not oppose her request. This collaboration between Schoep and the committee facilitated the process of her resignation.
The case reached the Appellate Division after Schoep filed her initial affidavit on August 19, 2026, followed by a supplemental affidavit on September 2, 2026. The committee's response on September 28, 2026, indicated that they found Schoep eligible for resignation without any disciplinary actions pending against her.
The Ruling
The court ruled in favor of Schoep's application, granting her permission to resign from the New York bar. The decision was made by a panel of judges, including Aarons, J.P., Reynolds Fitzgerald, McShan, Powers, and Corcoran. The court stated, "We grant her application and accept her resignation," emphasizing that Schoep's resignation was accepted for nondisciplinary reasons.
Furthermore, the court ordered that Schoep's name be stricken from the roll of attorneys and counselors-at-law in New York, effective immediately. The ruling also commanded Schoep to refrain from practicing law in any capacity within the state. This includes appearing before any court or public authority and providing legal advice.
Impact
This ruling sets a clear precedent for other attorneys who may wish to resign without facing disciplinary action. It illustrates that the legal system provides a pathway for attorneys to exit the profession responsibly and without repercussions, as long as they meet the necessary criteria.
The decision also affects the Attorney Grievance Committee's role in overseeing such resignations. By not opposing Schoep's application, the committee demonstrated a willingness to support attorneys in their personal decisions to leave the profession. This could encourage other attorneys who are contemplating resignation to pursue that option without fear of disciplinary consequences.
What's Next
Details were not available in the court filing regarding any potential appeals. However, since Schoep's resignation was accepted for nondisciplinary reasons, it is unlikely that there will be a related case pending. Schoep must also surrender any Attorney Secure Pass issued to her within 30 days of the decision.