A New York court has reinstated attorney Sara O'Connor Kenney, who was disbarred after a felony conviction related to impaired driving. The Appellate Division of the Supreme Court of the State of New York ruled on August 20, 2026, that Kenney has met the necessary criteria for reinstatement. This decision is significant as it highlights the court's willingness to allow attorneys who have shown rehabilitation to return to practice under specific conditions.
The ruling affects Kenney, who was disbarred in 2018 after pleading guilty to aggravated driving while intoxicated, a class E felony. After her disbarment, Kenney faced further legal issues, including an arrest for driving while ability impaired. The court's decision to reinstate her could set a precedent for other disbarred attorneys seeking to return to practice.
Background
Sara O'Connor Kenney was admitted to practice law in New York in 2007. Her legal career took a downturn when she pleaded guilty in May 2018 to several crimes, including aggravated driving while intoxicated. Following her conviction, the court struck her name from the roll of attorneys, effectively disbarring her.
After her disbarment, Kenney was arrested again for violating the terms of her probation. This led to a term of incarceration. Despite these challenges, Kenney sought reinstatement for the first time, prompting the Attorney Grievance Committee for the Third Judicial Department to oppose her application. The court referred the matter to a Character and Fitness subcommittee for further evaluation.
The Ruling
The Appellate Division ruled in favor of Kenney's reinstatement, stating that she had demonstrated sufficient character and fitness to practice law again. The judges involved in the decision included Garry, P.J., Aarons, Pritzker, Fisher, and McShan.
The court ruled, "we conclude that respondent has sufficiently established the requisite character and fitness to resume the practice of law in this state, as well as the public's interest in her reinstatement."
The court's decision emphasized that Kenney had complied with the disbarment order and had not practiced law during her disbarment. It also noted her gainful employment with the New York State Comptroller's Office and her commitment to sobriety and mental health.
Impact
This ruling has important implications for other disbarred attorneys. It shows that the court is open to reinstating attorneys who can prove they have rehabilitated and addressed their past misconduct. Kenney's case may encourage others in similar situations to seek reinstatement, knowing that the court considers factors such as personal growth and commitment to public service.
Kenney's reinstatement is conditional. She must refrain from practicing law solo and associate with a supervising attorney for at least one year. This requirement aims to ensure that her return to the legal profession does not pose a risk to the public.
What's Next
Kenney's reinstatement can be seen as a fresh start, but she must adhere to the conditions set by the court. She may also move to terminate the supervision requirement after August 20, 2027. There are no indications of related cases pending at this time.