Bill > S01845

This bill eliminates the current requirement that papers, records, and documents related to attorney misconduct or discipline be sealed and kept confidential. Specifically, the bill removes language in the New York Judiciary Law that mandates keeping these documents private, and eliminates a provision that automatically makes such records public only if charges against an attorney are sustained. Under the proposed changes, these documents would no longer be automatically confidential, which means they could potentially be more accessible to the public. The bill would give justices of the appellate division more discretion in determining whether and how such documents can be divulged, rather than having a blanket sealing requirement. The change aims to increase transparency in attorney disciplinary proceedings by reducing restrictions on access to records about potential attorney misconduct. The bill will take effect 30 days after becoming law, and allows for immediate preparation of any necessary implementing rules or regulations.

Justice

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S1845