The Appellate Division of the Supreme Court of the State of New York has accepted the resignation of attorney Eric Henry Gartenman. This decision, made on June 25, 2026, allows Gartenman to resign for nondisciplinary reasons. The ruling affects Gartenman, who has practiced law since 2004, and marks a significant step in his legal career.
Gartenman, who has a business address in Tucson, Arizona, sought permission to resign from the New York bar. His application was reviewed by the Attorney Grievance Committee for the Third Judicial Department, which indicated it did not oppose his request. The court's decision to accept his resignation is important as it highlights the process by which attorneys can leave the profession without facing disciplinary action.
Background
Eric Henry Gartenman was admitted to practice law in New York in 2004. He has maintained a business address in Tucson, Arizona, and has been registered with the Office of Court Administration. The specific reasons for his resignation were not detailed in the court filings, but he sought to leave the bar for nondisciplinary reasons.
The Attorney Grievance Committee for the Third Judicial Department reviewed Gartenman's application and determined that he was eligible to resign. They did not oppose his request, which paved the way for the court's decision. This case illustrates the procedures attorneys must follow when resigning from the bar, especially when their resignation is not related to any misconduct.
The Ruling
The court ruled in favor of Gartenman, granting his application for resignation. The opinion stated, “Gartenman is eligible to resign for nondisciplinary reasons, we grant his application and accept his resignation.” This decision was made by a panel of judges including Clark, J.P., Ceresia, McShan, Mackey, and Ryba.
As part of the ruling, the court ordered that Gartenman's name be stricken from the roll of attorneys and counselors-at-law in New York, effective immediately. The court also commanded Gartenman to refrain from practicing law in any capacity within the state and to surrender any Attorney Secure Pass issued to him within 30 days.
Impact
This ruling has several implications for both Gartenman and the legal profession in New York. For Gartenman, it marks the end of his ability to practice law in New York State. The court's acceptance of his resignation for nondisciplinary reasons indicates that attorneys can leave the profession without facing penalties or disciplinary actions, provided they meet certain criteria.
For the broader legal community, this case underscores the importance of the procedures in place for attorneys wishing to resign. It highlights that the Attorney Grievance Committee plays a crucial role in reviewing such applications and that the court respects their recommendations. This ruling sets a precedent for future cases where attorneys may seek to resign without facing disciplinary issues.
What's Next
Details were not available in the court filing regarding whether Gartenman plans to appeal this decision or if there are any related cases pending. However, the court's ruling is final, and Gartenman is now prohibited from practicing law in New York.