In re Resignation of Owens

Summary

The Supreme Court of Ohio accepted Robert Morris Owens’s resignation from the practice of law as a resignation with disciplinary action pending under Gov.Bar R. VI(11)(C). The order withdrew his ability to practice law, struck his name from the roll of attorneys, and imposed related notification, client-property, reimbursement, and compliance obligations.

Holdings

1. Under Gov.Bar R. VI(11)(C), the court accepted Robert Morris Owens's resignation as an attorney and counselor at law with disciplinary action pending.
2. Upon acceptance of the resignation, Owens's rights and privileges to practice law in Ohio were withdrawn, and he was prohibited from holding himself out as an attorney or performing legal services.
3. Owens was required to surrender his certificate of admission, have his name stricken from the roll of attorneys, reimburse applicable Lawyers' Fund for Client Protection awards, notify clients and opposing parties, handle client property and unearned fees, file a compliance affidavit, and maintain specified records and contact information.

Questions Presented

1. Whether Owens's application for retirement or resignation should be accepted as a resignation with disciplinary action pending under Gov.Bar R. VI(11)(C).
2. What restrictions and compliance obligations should accompany acceptance of the resignation.

Disposition

approved