State ex rel. Oklahoma Bar Ass'n v. Robelen, 2006 OK 13

Summary

The Oklahoma Supreme Court approved Scott Gerald Robelen’s resignation from the Oklahoma Bar Association while disciplinary proceedings were pending. The order struck his name from the roll of attorneys, barred reinstatement applications for five years, and imposed client-notification and Client Security Fund repayment conditions.

Holdings

1. Robelen's resignation pending disciplinary proceedings complied with Rule 8.1 of the Rules Governing Disciplinary Proceedings and was approved.
2. An approved resignation pending disciplinary proceedings is tantamount to disbarment; the attorney's name must be stricken from the roll, and the attorney may not apply for reinstatement for five years from the effective date of the order.
3. Robelen was required to notify clients with pending legal business within twenty days by certified mail, and repayment of amounts paid by the Client Security Fund was made a condition of reinstatement.

Questions Presented

1. Whether Robelen's resignation pending disciplinary proceedings complied with Rule 8.1 of the Rules Governing Disciplinary Proceedings and should be approved.
2. What consequences and conditions attach to an approved resignation pending disciplinary proceedings.

Disposition

approved