The New York Appellate Division of the Supreme Court has reinstated attorney Shen Dee Lee after a suspension that began in September 2022. The court's decision, made on July 16, 2026, allows Lee to return to practicing law, stating that she meets the necessary requirements to do so. This ruling affects Lee, who had been unable to practice law since her suspension, and it highlights the court's process for reviewing attorney conduct.
Lee's reinstatement is significant as it illustrates the court's commitment to ensuring that attorneys can return to practice if they demonstrate compliance with disciplinary measures. The ruling also serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining ethical standards within the legal profession.
Background
The case involves Shen Dee Lee, an attorney registered under number 2986164, and the Attorney Grievance Committee for the Third Judicial Department, which acted as the petitioner in this matter. The dispute arose when Lee was suspended from practicing law due to violations under Judiciary Law § 468-a. The specific details of the violations that led to her suspension were not disclosed in the court filing.
Following her suspension, Lee sought to have her law license reinstated. She filed a motion on April 23, 2026, requesting the court to allow her to return to practice. The Attorney Grievance Committee responded to her motion, and the court reviewed the evidence presented to determine whether she met the criteria for reinstatement.
The Ruling
The Appellate Division ruled in favor of Lee's reinstatement, concluding that she had satisfied the necessary requirements outlined in the court's rules. The court found, based on clear and convincing evidence, that Lee had complied with the order of suspension and had demonstrated the requisite character and fitness to practice law.
The court stated, "it would be in the public interest to reinstate respondent to the practice of law."
Judges Aarons, Reynolds Fitzgerald, Powers, Mackey, and Corcoran all concurred with the decision. The ruling emphasized that Lee had met the standards set forth in the Rules for Attorney Disciplinary Matters, which govern the reinstatement process for attorneys who have faced disciplinary actions.
Impact
This ruling is significant for both Lee and the legal community. It indicates that attorneys who have faced suspension can successfully return to practice if they can demonstrate compliance with disciplinary measures and possess the necessary character and fitness. This decision may encourage other attorneys in similar situations to seek reinstatement, knowing that the court will consider their circumstances fairly.
The ruling also reinforces the importance of adherence to legal and ethical standards within the legal profession. By reinstating Lee, the court sends a message that it values the opportunity for rehabilitation and the potential for attorneys to correct past mistakes.
What's Next
Details were not available in the court filing regarding whether this decision can be appealed. However, as it stands, Lee is now reinstated and can resume her practice of law. There are no related cases pending that have been mentioned in the court opinion.