Rule VI. REGISTRATION OF ATTORNEYS

REGISTRATION OF ATTORNEYS

Section 1.

Definition.

As used in this rule:

(A)

“Tribunal” means a court, legislative body, administrative agency, or other body

acting in an adjudicative capacity.

(B)

“Attorney engaged in the private practice of law” means any attorney registered as

active with the Supreme Court, but does not include an attorney who is any of the

following:

(1)

Registered as a corporate counsel attorney under Section 6 of this rule;

(2)

Employed by an organizational client or governmental entity and who does

not represent clients outside that capacity;

(3)

Registered as a military legal assistance attorney under Section 7 of this

rule;

(4)

Registered as an emeritus pro bono attorney under Section 8 of this rule;

(5)

No longer practicing law in any capacity.

Section 2.

Active Attorney Registration.

(A)

Registration fee

Except as provided in Section 3 of this rule, each attorney admitted to the practice of law

in Ohio shall register with the Office of Attorney Services of the Supreme Court on or

before the first day of September in each odd-numbered year by completing the registration

process established by the office and, except as provided in Section 8(J) of this rule, paying

a registration fee. Beginning with the 2023 to 2025 registration biennium, the registration

fee shall be four hundred dollars. Beginning with the 2025 to 2027 registration biennium

and in each subsequent biennium, the registration fee shall be four hundred fifty dollars.

An attorney who registers and pays the fee shall be granted active status.

(B)

Civil legal aid services fee

The registration process shall provide for a voluntary fee of fifty dollars for deposit into

the Attorney Services Fund and use to fund civil legal aid services for low-income or

disadvantaged populations in Ohio.

Section 3.

Newly Admitted Attorney Registration.

(A)

Admittance during first twelve months of registration period

be granted active status.

(B)

Civil legal aid services fee

The registration process shall provide for a voluntary fee of fifty dollars for deposit into

the Attorney Services Fund and use to fund civil legal aid services for low-income or

disadvantaged populations in Ohio.

Section 3.

Newly Admitted Attorney Registration.

(A)

Admittance during first twelve months of registration period

Each attorney admitted to the practice of law in Ohio during the first twelve months of a

biennial registration period shall register with the Office of Attorney Services on or before

the thirtieth day from the date of admission by completing the registration process

established by the office and, if registering for active status, paying the registration fee as

provided in Section 2(A) of this rule.

(B)

Admittance during second twelve months of registration period

Each attorney admitted to the practice of law in Ohio during the second twelve months of

a biennial registration period, but prior to the first day of May of an odd-numbered year,

shall register with the Office of Attorney Services on or before the thirtieth day from the

date of admission by completing the registration process established by the office and, if

registering for active status, paying a registration fee. Beginning with the 2023 to 2025

registration biennium, the registration fee shall be two hundred dollars. Beginning with

the 2025 to 2027 registration biennium and in each subsequent biennium, the registration

fee shall be two hundred twenty-five dollars.

(C)

Admittance on or after first day of May of odd-numbered year

Each attorney admitted to the practice of law in Ohio on or after the first day of May of an

odd-numbered year shall register with the Office of Attorney Services on or before the

thirtieth day from the date of admission by completing the registration process established

by the office, but shall not be required to pay a registration fee.

Section 4.

Obligations of Attorney.

d-numbered year

Each attorney admitted to the practice of law in Ohio on or after the first day of May of an

odd-numbered year shall register with the Office of Attorney Services on or before the

thirtieth day from the date of admission by completing the registration process established

by the office, but shall not be required to pay a registration fee.

Section 4.

Obligations of Attorney.

(A)

Registration requirements

Each attorney admitted to the practice of law in Ohio or registered for corporate status shall

keep informed of the registration requirements, deadlines, and fees. An attorney’s failure

to receive notice that a registration and fee are due or notice of noncompliance shall not

affect any action taken under this rule.

(B)

Contact and professional liability insurance information; email service address

(1)

Each attorney admitted to the practice of law in Ohio or registered for corporate

status shall provide the Office of Attorney Services with the following information:

(a)

The attorney’s current residence address, office address, office telephone

number, office or residence email address, and email service address;

(b)

The name of all other states or territories of the United States in which the

attorney is admitted to the practice of law.

(2)

If an attorney fails to provide the Office of Attorney Services an email service

address, the attorney’s office or residence email address shall be deemed to be the

attorney’s email service address.

(3)

Service of any notice to an attorney by email service address pursuant to these rules

or the Rules for the Government of the Judiciary of Ohio shall be deemed complete.

(4)

Each attorney engaged in the private practice of law shall provide the following

information when registering pursuant to Section 2 of this rule:

(a)

Whether the attorney has professional liability insurance on the date of

registration;

ce to an attorney by email service address pursuant to these rules

or the Rules for the Government of the Judiciary of Ohio shall be deemed complete.

(4)

Each attorney engaged in the private practice of law shall provide the following

information when registering pursuant to Section 2 of this rule:

(a)

Whether the attorney has professional liability insurance on the date of

registration;

(b)

Whether the attorney has a plan to manage the attorney’s work or caseload

in the event the attorney becomes temporarily or permanently unable to do so.

(5)

The attorney shall notify the Office of Attorney Services within thirty days of any

change in the attorney’s registration information.

(C)

Demographic information

Each attorney admitted to the practice of law in Ohio or registered for corporate status may

provide the following demographic information to the Office of Attorney Services in a

manner prescribed by the office:

(1)

The attorney’s gender, race, and ethnicity;

(2)

The attorney’s past or present service in the United States armed forces,

including any reserve component or the National Guard;

(3)

If the attorney is bilingual or multilingual, all languages in which the

attorney is proficient.

(D)

Interest-bearing trust account information

(1)

For the purpose of compiling information regarding interest-bearing trust accounts

established pursuant to R.C. 3953.231 or 4705.09, each attorney shall provide the following

information when registering with the Office of Attorney Services pursuant to Section 2 or

3 of this rule:

(a)

The number of each trust or escrow account established by the attorney and

the name and location of the financial institution with which each account is

established;

bearing trust accounts

established pursuant to R.C. 3953.231 or 4705.09, each attorney shall provide the following

information when registering with the Office of Attorney Services pursuant to Section 2 or

3 of this rule:

(a)

The number of each trust or escrow account established by the attorney and

the name and location of the financial institution with which each account is

established;

(b)

If the attorney is affiliated with a law firm, legal professional association,

corporation, legal clinic, limited liability company, or limited liability partnership

or owns, operates, or owns an interest in a business that provides a law-related

service, the number of each trust or escrow account established by the attorney and

the name and location of the financial institution with which each account is

established;

(c)

If the attorney is not required to maintain an interest-bearing trust or escrow

account, information as to the basis for the exemption.

(2)

The Office of Attorney Services shall forward the information received pursuant to

division (D)(1) of this section to the Ohio Access to Justice Foundation, which shall

maintain the information consistent with R.C. 4705.10(B) and the rules of the foundation.

Section 5.

Inactive Attorney Registration.

(A)

Registration

An attorney who is admitted to the practice of law in Ohio may change the attorney’s status

to inactive by registering as such in a manner authorized by the Office of Attorney Services.

(B)

Scope of practice

Until the attorney requests and is granted reinstatement of active status pursuant to Section

2 of this rule, an inactive attorney shall not do any of the following:

(1)

Practice law in Ohio;

(2)

Hold the attorney’s self out as authorized to practice law in Ohio;

(3)

Hold nonfederal judicial office in Ohio;

manner authorized by the Office of Attorney Services.

(B)

Scope of practice

Until the attorney requests and is granted reinstatement of active status pursuant to Section

2 of this rule, an inactive attorney shall not do any of the following:

(1)

Practice law in Ohio;

(2)

Hold the attorney’s self out as authorized to practice law in Ohio;

(3)

Hold nonfederal judicial office in Ohio;

(4)

Occupy a nonfederal position in Ohio in which the attorney is called upon

to give legal advice or counsel; to examine a law; or to pass upon the legal effect

of any act, document, or law;

(5)

Be employed in the Ohio judicial system in a position required to be held

by an attorney;

Practice before any nonfederal court or agency in Ohio on behalf of any

person except the attorney’s self.

(C)

Obligation to provide and update contact information

An inactive attorney is not required to register biennially pursuant to Section 2 of this rule,

but shall keep the Office of Attorney Services apprised of the attorney’s current residence

address, office address, office telephone number, and office or residence e-mail address,

and shall notify the office of any change in the information provided on the most recent

registration completed by the attorney pursuant to Section 2 or 3 of this rule.

(D)

Law firm letterhead

A law firm may include the name of an inactive attorney on its letterhead if the name was

included prior to the time the attorney registered for inactive status, provided the attorney

is not suspended from the practice of law and the letterhead includes a designation that the

attorney is “inactive.” An inactive attorney shall not be listed as “of counsel” or otherwise

be represented as being able to engage in the practice of law.

Section 6.

Corporate Counsel Attorney Registration.

(A)

Definitions

As used in this section:

(1)

“Pro bono legal service” means legal service provided either to a person of

limited means or to a charitable organization.

that the

attorney is “inactive.” An inactive attorney shall not be listed as “of counsel” or otherwise

be represented as being able to engage in the practice of law.

Section 6.

Corporate Counsel Attorney Registration.

(A)

Definitions

As used in this section:

(1)

“Pro bono legal service” means legal service provided either to a person of

limited means or to a charitable organization.

(2)

“Qualified employer” means a nongovernmental employer whose business

is lawful and consists of activities other than the practice of law or the provision of

legal services. “Qualified employer” shall include the employing entity or its

organizational affiliates, including entities that control, are controlled by, or are

under common control with the employer and the employees, officers, and directors

of such entities.

(B)

Registration requirement

(1)

An attorney who is admitted to the practice of law in another state, the District of

Columbia, or a territory of the United States, but not admitted in Ohio, who commences

employment as an attorney in Ohio for a qualified employer, and who has a systematic and

continuous presence in Ohio as permitted pursuant to Prof.Cond.R. 5.5(d)(1) shall register

for corporate counsel status pursuant to division (C) of this section.

(2)

An attorney who is admitted to the practice of law in another state, the District of

Columbia, or a territory of the United States, but not in Ohio, and who is employed by,

associated with, or a partner in a law firm shall not be eligible to register for corporate

counsel status pursuant to division (C) of this section. Until the attorney is admitted to the

practice of law in Ohio or affirmatively authorized to practice law in Ohio pursuant to a

Supreme Court rule or order, the attorney may not practice law in Ohio, hold the attorney’s

o, and who is employed by,

associated with, or a partner in a law firm shall not be eligible to register for corporate

counsel status pursuant to division (C) of this section. Until the attorney is admitted to the

practice of law in Ohio or affirmatively authorized to practice law in Ohio pursuant to a

Supreme Court rule or order, the attorney may not practice law in Ohio, hold the attorney’s

self out as authorized to practice law in Ohio, or practice before any nonfederal court or

agency in Ohio on behalf of any person except the attorney’s self, unless granted leave by

the court or agency. The law firm may include the name of the attorney on its letterhead

only if the letterhead includes a designation that the attorney is not admitted in Ohio.

(C)

Registration application

An attorney who is required to register for corporate counsel status registration pursuant to

division (B)(1) of this section shall file all of the following with the Office of Attorney

Services:

(1)

An application on a form provided by the office;

(2)

A non-refundable application fee of five hundred dollars;

(3)

The registration required for attorneys pursuant to this rule for the current

biennium and each biennia during which the applicant is employed by a qualified

employer;

(4)

The fee required for Ohio attorneys registering for active status pursuant to

Section 2 this rule;

(5)

A certificate of good standing, dated no more than sixty days prior to the

submission of the application, from each jurisdiction in which the applicant is

admitted to the practice of law, including verification the applicant is active and

eligible to practice in at least one jurisdiction;

(6)

An affidavit from the applicant’s qualified employer that does all of the

following:

(a)

Certifies that it meets the definition of a qualified employer as

defined in division (A)(2) of this section;

(b)

Attests to the applicant’s employment as an attorney by the

employer;

of law, including verification the applicant is active and

eligible to practice in at least one jurisdiction;

(6)

An affidavit from the applicant’s qualified employer that does all of the

following:

(a)

Certifies that it meets the definition of a qualified employer as

defined in division (A)(2) of this section;

(b)

Attests to the applicant’s employment as an attorney by the

employer;

(c)

Attests that the employment conforms to the requirements of this

section;

(d)

Confirms the date of commencement of the attorney’s employment;

(e)

Attests the employer is aware the attorney is not admitted to the

practice of law in Ohio.

Any other documents or information as deemed necessary by the office to

determine eligibility to register for corporate counsel status pursuant to this section.

(D)

Biennial registration

An attorney registered for corporate counsel status under this section shall register

biennially with the Office of Attorney Services of the Supreme Court pursuant to this rule

and shall be subject to all registration requirements for attorneys, including late

registration, suspension, and reinstatement.

(E)

Failure to register

An attorney who is admitted to the practice of law in another state, the District of Columbia,

or a territory of the United States, but not in Ohio, and who performs legal services in Ohio

for a qualified employer, but fails to file an application for corporate counsel status under

this section within one hundred eighty days of commencing employment as an attorney for

the qualified employer in compliance with this section or does not qualify to register under

this section, shall be referred for investigation of the unauthorized practice of law under

Gov. Bar R. VII and, at the discretion of the Chief Justice, may be precluded from applying

for admission without examination under Gov. Bar R. I

e hundred eighty days of commencing employment as an attorney for

the qualified employer in compliance with this section or does not qualify to register under

this section, shall be referred for investigation of the unauthorized practice of law under

Gov. Bar R. VII and, at the discretion of the Chief Justice, may be precluded from applying

for admission without examination under Gov. Bar R. I. An attorney who registers within

one hundred eighty days of commencing employment pursuant to this section shall not be

deemed to have engaged in the unauthorized practice of law pursuant to Gov. Bar R. VII.

(F)

Scope of practice

(1)

An attorney who is registered for corporate counsel status under this section may

perform legal services for the qualified employer, but only on matters directly related to

the attorney’s work for the qualified employer and only to the extent consistent with

Prof.Cond.R. 1.7.

(2)

An attorney registered under this section shall not do either of the following:

(a)

Appear before a court or any other tribunal in Ohio on behalf of the

attorney’s employer or any person except for the lawyer’s self, except if granted

leave by the court or tribunal as provided in Gov. Bar R. XII;

(b)

Offer or provide legal services or advice to any person other than as

described in division (F)(1) of this section, or hold the attorney’s self out as being

authorized to practice law in Ohio other than as described in division (F)(1) of this

section.

(G)

Pro bono legal service

Notwithstanding division (F) of this section, an attorney registered for corporate counsel

status under this section may provide pro bono legal service if the legal service is assigned,

verified, and reported to the Commission on Continuing Legal Education by any of the

following:

An organization receiving funding for pro bono programs or services from

the Legal Services Corporation or the Ohio Access to Justice Foundation;

(2)

A metropolitan or county bar association;

counsel

status under this section may provide pro bono legal service if the legal service is assigned,

verified, and reported to the Commission on Continuing Legal Education by any of the

following:

An organization receiving funding for pro bono programs or services from

the Legal Services Corporation or the Ohio Access to Justice Foundation;

(2)

A metropolitan or county bar association;

(3)

The Ohio State Bar Association;

(4)

The Ohio Access to Justice Foundation;

(5)

Any other organization recognized by the Commission pursuant to Gov. Bar

R. X, Sec. (5)(H).

(H)

Application of rules

(1)

An attorney registered for corporate counsel status under this section shall be

subject to all rules and requirements governing the practice of law in Ohio, including the

Ohio Rules of Professional Conduct.

(2)

Upon admission to the practice of law in Ohio pursuant to Gov. Bar R. I, an attorney

registered for corporate counsel shall not be subject to the requirements of this section.

(I)

Continuing legal education requirements

An attorney registered for corporate counsel status under this section shall comply with the

continuing legal education requirements of Gov. Bar R. X.

(J)

Obligation to provide and update contact information

An attorney registered for corporate counsel status under this section shall provide the

Office of Attorney Services with the attorney’s current residence address, office address,

office telephone number, and office or residence e-mail address and shall notify the office

of any change in the information provided through the registration completed by the

attorney pursuant to division (C) of this section.

(K)

Obligation to report

An attorney registered for corporate counsel status under this section shall notify the Office

of Attorney Services within ten days of any of the following:

number, and office or residence e-mail address and shall notify the office

of any change in the information provided through the registration completed by the

attorney pursuant to division (C) of this section.

(K)

Obligation to report

An attorney registered for corporate counsel status under this section shall notify the Office

of Attorney Services within ten days of any of the following:

(1)

Termination of the attorney’s employment that was the basis for the

attorney’s registration as corporate counsel;

Any change in the attorney’s license status in another jurisdiction, including

the attorney’s resignation from the practice of law;

The imposition of any disciplinary finding or sanction in any state, the

District of Columbia, or a territory of the United States where the attorney has been

admitted to the practice of law.

(L)

Termination of registration

The limited authority to practice law of an attorney registered for corporate counsel status

under this section shall automatically terminate upon the occurrence of any of the

following:

(1)

The employment that was the basis for the attorney’s registration for

corporate counsel terminates;

(2)

The attorney ceases to maintain active status in at least one other state or

the District of Columbia or a territory of the United States;

(3)

The attorney fails to maintain current good standing in at least one other

state or the District of Columbia or a territory of the United States in which the

attorney is admitted to the practice of law;

ation for

corporate counsel terminates;

(2)

The attorney ceases to maintain active status in at least one other state or

the District of Columbia or a territory of the United States;

(3)

The attorney fails to maintain current good standing in at least one other

state or the District of Columbia or a territory of the United States in which the

attorney is admitted to the practice of law;

(4)

The attorney is suspended or disbarred for disciplinary reasons in any state,

the District of Columbia, or a territory of the United States or by any federal court

or agency in which the attorney has been admitted to the practice of law.

(M)

Reinstatement of registration

An attorney registered for corporate counsel status under this section whose registration is

terminated pursuant to division (L) of this section may reapply for such status by

submitting an application pursuant to division (C) of this section.

Section 7.

Military Legal Assistance Attorney Registration.

(A)

Registration

An attorney who is admitted to the practice of law and maintains active status in at least

one United States jurisdiction other than Ohio; is employed by, serving in, or assigned to

the armed forces at a military installation in Ohio as an attorney; and is otherwise

authorized to provide legal assistance pursuant to 10 U.S.C. 1044 may apply for military

legal assistance attorney registration by submitting to the Office of Attorney Services all

of the following:

status in at least

one United States jurisdiction other than Ohio; is employed by, serving in, or assigned to

the armed forces at a military installation in Ohio as an attorney; and is otherwise

authorized to provide legal assistance pursuant to 10 U.S.C. 1044 may apply for military

legal assistance attorney registration by submitting to the Office of Attorney Services all

of the following:

(1)

A completed application on a form prescribed by the Office of Attorney

Services;

A certificate of admission and good standing from each of the United States

jurisdictions in which the attorney is admitted to practice law;

An affidavit from the commanding officer, staff judge advocate, or chief

legal officer of the military installation in Ohio where the attorney is employed,

serving, or assigned attesting to the fact that the attorney is employed, serving, or

assigned as an attorney to provide legal services exclusively for the military and

that the nature of the attorney’s employment, service, or assignment conforms to

the requirements of this section.

(B)

Scope of practice

(1)

An attorney registered as a military legal assistance attorney under this section is

authorized to represent military personnel in enlisted grades E-1 through E-4 and their

dependents who are eligible for legal assistance under 10 U.S.C. 1044 in civil judicial and

administrative proceedings before Ohio tribunals while the attorney is employed, serving,

or assigned within Ohio, to the extent such representation is permitted by the commanding

officer, supervisory staff judge advocate, or chief legal officer of the military installation.

s E-1 through E-4 and their

dependents who are eligible for legal assistance under 10 U.S.C. 1044 in civil judicial and

administrative proceedings before Ohio tribunals while the attorney is employed, serving,

or assigned within Ohio, to the extent such representation is permitted by the commanding

officer, supervisory staff judge advocate, or chief legal officer of the military installation.

(2)

The practice of an attorney registered as a military legal assistance attorney under

this section shall be subject to the limitations and restrictions of 10 U.S.C. 1044 and the

regulations of that attorney’s military service and limited to the military clients’ personal

civil legal matters. The attorney shall not demand or receive any compensation from

military clients other than the usual military pay to which the attorney is entitled.

(3)

An attorney registered as a military legal assistance attorney under this section shall

not do any of the following:

(a)

Unless granted permission to appear pro hac vice, practice before any Ohio

tribunal, except on behalf of the attorney’s self and military clients eligible for legal

assistance under 10 U.S.C. 1044 and this section;

(b)

Offer to provide legal services in Ohio to any person other than as

authorized by the attorney’s military service and this section;

(c)

Render legal services for any person in Ohio other than as authorized by the

attorney’s military service and this section;

cept on behalf of the attorney’s self and military clients eligible for legal

assistance under 10 U.S.C. 1044 and this section;

(b)

Offer to provide legal services in Ohio to any person other than as

authorized by the attorney’s military service and this section;

(c)

Render legal services for any person in Ohio other than as authorized by the

attorney’s military service and this section;

(d)

Hold the attorney’s self out as authorized to provide legal services in Ohio

to any person other than as authorized by the attorney’s military service and this

section.

(C)

Application of rules

An attorney registered as a military legal assistance attorney under this section shall be

subject to all rules and requirements governing the practice of law in Ohio, including the

Ohio Rules of Professional Conduct, provided the attorney shall not be required to pay

registration fees pursuant to Section 2 of this rule. The attorney shall use as the attorney’s

address of record the military address in Ohio of the commanding officer, staff judge

advocate, or chief legal officer who filed the affidavit on the attorney’s behalf pursuant to

division (A)(3) of this section.

(D)

Designation in pleadings

An attorney registered as a military legal assistance attorney under this section shall, in all

pleadings filed by the attorney, cite this section and include the name, complete address,

and telephone number of the military legal office representing the military client and the

name, grade, branch of the armed forces, and the military legal assistance attorney

registration number of the attorney.

(E)

Obligation to report

An attorney registered as a military legal assistance attorney under this section shall within

ten days report to the Office of Attorney Services of any of the following:

(1)

Any change in the attorney’s employment, service, or assignment that was

the basis for the attorney’s registration as a military legal assistance attorney;

istration number of the attorney.

(E)

Obligation to report

An attorney registered as a military legal assistance attorney under this section shall within

ten days report to the Office of Attorney Services of any of the following:

(1)

Any change in the attorney’s employment, service, or assignment that was

the basis for the attorney’s registration as a military legal assistance attorney;

(2)

Any change in the attorney’s licensure status in another jurisdiction,

including the attorney’s resignation from the practice of law;

(3)

The imposition of any disciplinary finding or sanction in any United States

jurisdiction other than Ohio where the attorney has been admitted to the practice of

law.

(F)

Termination of registration

The limited authority to practice law of an attorney registered as a military legal assistance

attorney under this section shall automatically terminate upon the occurrence of any of the

following:

(1)

The attorney is no longer employed by, serving in, or assigned to the

military installation in Ohio from which the affidavit required by division (A)(3) of

this section was filed;

(2)

The attorney is admitted to the practice of law in Ohio pursuant to Gov. Bar

R. I;

(3)

The attorney ceases to maintain active status in at least one United States

jurisdiction other than Ohio;

The attorney fails to maintain current good standing in any United States

jurisdiction other than Ohio in which the attorney is admitted to the practice of law;

The attorney is suspended or disbarred for disciplinary reasons in any

United States jurisdiction other than Ohio or by any federal court or agency in

which the attorney has been admitted to the practice of law;

(6)

The attorney fails to comply with any provision of this section.

Section 8.

Emeritus Pro Bono Attorney Registration.

(A)

Definition

As used in this section:

ice of law;

The attorney is suspended or disbarred for disciplinary reasons in any

United States jurisdiction other than Ohio or by any federal court or agency in

which the attorney has been admitted to the practice of law;

(6)

The attorney fails to comply with any provision of this section.

Section 8.

Emeritus Pro Bono Attorney Registration.

(A)

Definition

As used in this section:

(1)

“Pro bono organization” means a law school clinic, legal aid, public

defender's office, or legal services organization listed in or recognized pursuant to

Gov. Bar R. X, Section 5(G).

(2)

“Supervising attorney” means an attorney who satisfies all of the following

requirements:

(a)

Is admitted to the practice of law in Ohio pursuant to Gov. Bar R. I

or is temporarily certified to practice law in Ohio pursuant to Gov. Bar R.

IX;

(b)

Is in good standing in each jurisdiction in which the attorney is

admitted to the practice of law;

(c)

Is employed by or associated with a pro bono organization.

(B)

Eligibility

An attorney who satisfies all of the following requirements may register for emeritus pro

bono attorney status pursuant to Section 8(C) of this rule:

(1)

Is admitted to the practice of law in Ohio;

(2)

Has been engaged in the practice of law, as defined in Gov. Bar R. I, Section

10(B), for a minimum of fifteen years;

(3)

Is in good standing with the Supreme Court;

(4)

Has not resigned from the practice of law in Ohio, resigned from the

practice of law in Ohio with discipline pending, or permanently retired from the

practice of law in Ohio;

Has not voluntarily or involuntarily relinquished the attorney’s license to

practice law in another jurisdiction in order to avoid discipline or as a result of

discipline imposed by a relevant authority;

(6)

Has not been disciplined for professional misconduct within the past ten

years or been disbarred by another jurisdiction.

(C)

Registration application

the

practice of law in Ohio;

Has not voluntarily or involuntarily relinquished the attorney’s license to

practice law in another jurisdiction in order to avoid discipline or as a result of

discipline imposed by a relevant authority;

(6)

Has not been disciplined for professional misconduct within the past ten

years or been disbarred by another jurisdiction.

(C)

Registration application

(1)

An attorney registering for emeritus pro bono attorney status shall file an

application with the Office of Attorney Services of the Supreme Court. The application

shall be on a form provided by the office and shall include all of the following:

(a)

Certification the attorney satisfies the requirements of Section 8(B) of this

rule;

(b)

Certification from a pro bono organization verifying the attorney is

associated with the organization;

(c)

Any other information considered necessary or appropriate by the Office of

Attorney Services;

(d)

A non-refundable and non-transferable fee of seventy-five dollars.

(2)

The Office of Attorney Services shall grant the attorney emeritus pro bono attorney

status if the attorney satisfies the requirements of Sections 8(B) and (C)(1) of this rule.

(D)

Scope of authority

(1)

An emeritus pro bono attorney, in association with the pro bono organization with

which the attorney is associated, may do any of the following:

(a)

Appear before any court or administrative board or agency on behalf of a

client of the organization, provided the person on whose behalf the attorney is

appearing has consented in writing and the attorney’s supervising attorney has

given written approval for the representation. The written consent and approval

shall be filed in the record of each matter and shall be brought to the attention of a

judge of the court or the presiding officer of the administrative tribunal.

of the organization, provided the person on whose behalf the attorney is

appearing has consented in writing and the attorney’s supervising attorney has

given written approval for the representation. The written consent and approval

shall be filed in the record of each matter and shall be brought to the attention of a

judge of the court or the presiding officer of the administrative tribunal.

(b)

Provide routine legal services without the supervision of the attorney’s

supervising attorney with the approval of the organization, in its sole discretion;

(c)

Engage in activities necessary for any legal matter in which the attorney is

involved pursuant to Section 8(D)(1)(a) and (b) of this rule.

The pro bono organization supervising an emeritus pro bono attorney pursuant to

Section 8(D)(1) of this rule shall provide professional liability insurance coverage for the

attorney.

(E)

Continuing legal education

An emeritus pro bono attorney shall comply with the continuing legal education

requirements for attorneys on active status pursuant to Gov. Bar R. X, Section 3.

(F)

Compensation

(1)

Subject to Section 8(F)(2) and (3) of this rule, an emeritus pro bono attorney shall

not ask for or receive any compensation or remuneration of any kind for legal services

rendered pursuant to Section 8 of this rule.

(2)

A pro bono organization may receive attorney fees for services rendered by an

emeritus pro bono attorney consistent with the Ohio Rules of Professional Conduct and as

provided by law.

(3)

A pro bono organization may reimburse an emeritus pro bono attorney for expenses

incurred in connection with services rendered.

(G)

Biennial registration

An emeritus pro bono attorney shall register with the Office of Attorney Services on or

before the first day of September in each odd-numbered year by completing the registration

process established by the office and paying a registration fee of seventy-five dollars.

(H)

Change in pro bono organization association

incurred in connection with services rendered.

(G)

Biennial registration

An emeritus pro bono attorney shall register with the Office of Attorney Services on or

before the first day of September in each odd-numbered year by completing the registration

process established by the office and paying a registration fee of seventy-five dollars.

(H)

Change in pro bono organization association

(1)

An emeritus pro bono attorney who ends an association with a pro bono

organization or establishes an association with a new pro bono organization shall notify

the Office of Attorney Services, in a manner authorized by the office, within thirty days of

the change.

(2)

If an emeritus pro bono attorney ends an association with a pro bono organization,

the attorney’s supervising attorney shall immediately file a notice of such in the official

file of each matter pending before a court or tribunal in which the emeritus pro bono

attorney entered an appearance.

(I)

Duration of emeritus pro bono attorney status

Unless revoked earlier pursuant to Section 8(I)(2) of this rule, the emeritus pro bono

attorney status shall automatically expire upon the occurrence of any of the following:

(a)

The attorney provides notice to the Office of Attorney Services, in a manner

authorized by the office, that the attorney is withdrawing from emeritus pro bono

attorney status;

(b)

The attorney ceases to be associated with any pro bono organization on

record with the Office of Attorney Services;

o

attorney status shall automatically expire upon the occurrence of any of the following:

(a)

The attorney provides notice to the Office of Attorney Services, in a manner

authorized by the office, that the attorney is withdrawing from emeritus pro bono

attorney status;

(b)

The attorney ceases to be associated with any pro bono organization on

record with the Office of Attorney Services;

(c)

The attorney obtains active attorney status pursuant to Section 2 of this rule

or inactive attorney status pursuant to Section 5 of this rule.

(2)

The Supreme Court, sua sponte, may revoke an emeritus pro bono attorney status

without hearing or statement of cause by providing written notification to the attorney, the

attorney’s supervising attorney, and the pro bono organization with which the attorney is

associated.

(3)

Upon expiration or revocation of an emeritus pro bono attorney’s registration

pursuant to Section 8(I)(1) or (2) of this rule, each of the following shall occur:

(a)

The attorney’s supervising attorney shall immediately file a notice of such

in the official file of each matter pending before a court or tribunal in which the

emeritus pro bono attorney entered an appearance;

(b)

The attorney shall file for either active attorney status pursuant to Section 2

of this rule or inactive attorney status pursuant to Section 5 of this rule.

(J)

Active attorney registration fee

An emeritus pro bono attorney who requests and is granted reinstatement of active status

pursuant to Section 2 of this rule during a biennial registration period shall pay a

registration fee. Beginning with the 2023 to 2025 registration biennium, the registration

fee shall be three hundred and twenty-five dollars. Beginning with the 2025 to 2027

registration biennium and in each subsequent biennium, the registration fee shall be three

hundred and seventy-five dollars.

Section 9.

Exemptions.

The following persons are exempt from the requirements of this rule:

registration fee. Beginning with the 2023 to 2025 registration biennium, the registration

fee shall be three hundred and twenty-five dollars. Beginning with the 2025 to 2027

registration biennium and in each subsequent biennium, the registration fee shall be three

hundred and seventy-five dollars.

Section 9.

Exemptions.

The following persons are exempt from the requirements of this rule:

(A)

A person certified to practice law temporarily in Ohio under Gov. Bar R. IX;

(B)

A foreign legal consultant registered under Gov. Bar R. XI.

Section 10.

Failure to Register; Late Registration Fee; Summary Suspension;

Reinstatement.

(A)

Late fee

An attorney who fails to register and pay a fee as required by this rule on or before the date

on which it becomes due, but does so within sixty days of that date, shall be assessed a late

registration fee of one hundred dollars. The late registration fee shall be in addition to the

applicable registration fee.

(B)

Suspension from the practice of law

(1)

An attorney who fails to register and pay the fees required by this rule either on a

timely basis or within the late registration period provided for in division (A) of this section,

or fails to comply with division (B)(2) of this section, shall be notified of apparent

noncompliance by the Office of Attorney Services. The office shall send the notice of

apparent noncompliance by regular mail to the attorney at the most recent address provided

by the attorney to the office. The notice shall inform the attorney that the attorney will be

summarily suspended from the practice of law in Ohio and not entitled to practice law in

Ohio unless, on or before the date and in the manner set forth in the notice, the attorney

either files evidence of compliance with the requirements of this rule or comes into

compliance

t recent address provided

by the attorney to the office. The notice shall inform the attorney that the attorney will be

summarily suspended from the practice of law in Ohio and not entitled to practice law in

Ohio unless, on or before the date and in the manner set forth in the notice, the attorney

either files evidence of compliance with the requirements of this rule or comes into

compliance. If the attorney does not file evidence of compliance or come into compliance

on or before the date set forth in the notice, the attorney shall be summarily suspended from

the practice of law in Ohio. The office shall record the suspension on the roll of attorneys

and send notice of the suspension by certified mail to the attorney at the most recent address

provided by the attorney to the office. The Supreme Court Reporter shall publish notice

of the suspension in the Ohio Official Reports and the Ohio State Bar Association Report.

(2)(a) Beginning with the 2025 to 2027 registration biennium, and in each subsequent

biennium, an attorney who is engaged in the private practice of law and under Section

4(B)(4)(a) of this rule discloses the attorney does not have professional liability insurance

shall not be permitted to register and shall be subject to suspension under division (B)(1)

of this section until the attorney either completes the Office of Disciplinary Counsel’s

proactive management-based regulation curriculum on the ethical operation of a law

practice or obtains professional liability insurance and reports that fact to the Office of

Attorney Services.

(b)

When reporting the purchase of professional liability insurance to the Office of

Attorney Services for reinstatement under Section 10(B)(2)(a) of this rule, the attorney

shall provide documentation showing the name of the insurer, the policy number, and the

amount and dates of coverage.

r obtains professional liability insurance and reports that fact to the Office of

Attorney Services.

(b)

When reporting the purchase of professional liability insurance to the Office of

Attorney Services for reinstatement under Section 10(B)(2)(a) of this rule, the attorney

shall provide documentation showing the name of the insurer, the policy number, and the

amount and dates of coverage.

(c)

An attorney newly admitted to the practice of law shall be exempt from the

proactive management-based regulation curriculum requirement of Section 10(B)(2)(a) of

this rule for the attorney’s first registration biennium.

(C)

Prohibited activities by suspended attorney

An attorney who is summarily suspended pursuant to division (B) of this section shall not

do any of the following:

(1)

Practice law in Ohio;

(2)

Hold the attorney’s self out as authorized to practice law in Ohio;

(3)

Hold nonfederal judicial office in Ohio;

(4)

Occupy a nonfederal position in Ohio in which the attorney is called upon

to give legal advice or counsel or to examine the law or pass upon the legal effect

of any act, document, or law;

(5)

Be employed in the Ohio judicial system in a position required to be held

by an attorney;

(6)

Practice before any nonfederal court or agency in this state on behalf of any

person except the attorney’s self.

(D)

Reinstatement

An attorney who is summarily suspended pursuant to division (B) of this section may be

reinstated to the practice of law by applying for reinstatement with the Office of Attorney

Services, complying with the requirements of Section 2 of this rule, including payment of

the applicable registration fee, and paying a reinstatement fee of three hundred dollars. The

office shall send notice of reinstatement to an attorney who meets the conditions for

reinstatement and shall record the reinstatement on the roll of attorneys

plying for reinstatement with the Office of Attorney

Services, complying with the requirements of Section 2 of this rule, including payment of

the applicable registration fee, and paying a reinstatement fee of three hundred dollars. The

office shall send notice of reinstatement to an attorney who meets the conditions for

reinstatement and shall record the reinstatement on the roll of attorneys. The Supreme

Court Reporter shall publish notice of the reinstatement in the Ohio Official Reports and

the Ohio State Bar Association Report.

Section 11.

Retirement or Resignation from the Practice of Law.

(A)

Application to retire or resign

An attorney who wishes to retire or resign from the practice of law in Ohio shall file an

application with the Office of Attorney Services. The application shall be on a form

furnished by the office and contain both of the following:

(1)

A notarized affidavit setting forth the attorney’s full name, attorney

registration number, date of birth, mailing address, and all other jurisdictions and

registration numbers under which the attorney practices. The affidavit shall state

all of the following:

(a)

The attorney wishes to retire or resign from the practice of law in

Ohio;

(b)

The attorney fully understands that the retirement or resignation

completely divests the attorney of the privilege of engaging in the practice

of law, and of each, any, and all of the rights, privileges, and prerogatives

appurtenant to the office of attorney and counselor at law;

ate

all of the following:

(a)

The attorney wishes to retire or resign from the practice of law in

Ohio;

(b)

The attorney fully understands that the retirement or resignation

completely divests the attorney of the privilege of engaging in the practice

of law, and of each, any, and all of the rights, privileges, and prerogatives

appurtenant to the office of attorney and counselor at law;

(c)

The attorney fully understands that the retirement or resignation is

unconditional, final, and irrevocable.

(2)

A written waiver allowing Disciplinary Counsel to review all proceedings

and documents relating to review and investigation of grievances made against the

attorney under the Rules for the Government of the Bar of Ohio and the Rules for

the Government of the Judiciary of Ohio and to disclose to the Supreme Court any

information it deems appropriate, including, but not limited to, information that

otherwise would be private pursuant to Gov. Bar R. V.

(B)

Investigation by Disciplinary Counsel

The Office of Attorney Services shall refer an application received pursuant to division (A)

of this section to Disciplinary Counsel. Upon receipt of the referral, Disciplinary Counsel

shall determine whether any disciplinary proceedings are pending against the attorney.

After completing this inquiry, Disciplinary Counsel shall submit to the office a confidential

report, under seal, recommending whether the application should be accepted, denied, or

delayed. If Disciplinary Counsel recommends that the application be accepted, the report

shall indicate whether the attorney should be designated as “retired” or designated as

“resigned with disciplinary action pending.” If Disciplinary Counsel recommends that the

application be denied or delayed, the report shall provide reasons for the recommendation.

Upon receipt of the report from Disciplinary Counsel, the office shall file the application

and the report with the Clerk of the Supreme Court.

whether the attorney should be designated as “retired” or designated as

“resigned with disciplinary action pending.” If Disciplinary Counsel recommends that the

application be denied or delayed, the report shall provide reasons for the recommendation.

Upon receipt of the report from Disciplinary Counsel, the office shall file the application

and the report with the Clerk of the Supreme Court.

(C)

Order for retirement, resignation with discipline pending, or the denial or deferral of

the application

Upon receipt and consideration of an application filed pursuant to division (B) of this

section, the Supreme Court shall enter an order it deems appropriate. The Clerk of the

Supreme Court shall serve a copy of an order of retirement or a denial or deferment of an

application on the attorney. The Clerk shall serve copies of an order of resignation with

discipline pending as provided in Gov. Bar R. V, Section 17(D)(1).

(D)

Law firm letterhead for retired attorney

A retired attorney may be designated as “retired” on law firm letterhead if the attorney’s

name was included on the letterhead prior to the time that the attorney’s retirement was

accepted by the Supreme Court. A retired attorney shall not be listed as “of counsel” or

otherwise be represented as able to engage in the practice of law in Ohio.

Section 12.

Suspended Attorneys.

(A)

“Suspended” status

The registration status of an attorney who is suspended from the practice of law in Ohio

pursuant to the following rules shall be designated as “suspended”:

(1)

Gov. Bar R. V, except as provided in Gov. Bar R. V, Section 15(D);

(2)

Gov. Bar R. VI;

” or

otherwise be represented as able to engage in the practice of law in Ohio.

Section 12.

Suspended Attorneys.

(A)

“Suspended” status

The registration status of an attorney who is suspended from the practice of law in Ohio

pursuant to the following rules shall be designated as “suspended”:

(1)

Gov. Bar R. V, except as provided in Gov. Bar R. V, Section 15(D);

(2)

Gov. Bar R. VI;

(3)

Gov. Bar R. X.

(B)

“Ineligible” status

The registration status of an attorney who is suspended from the practice of law in Ohio

pursuant to Gov. Bar R. V, Section 15(D) shall be designated as “ineligible,” unless the

attorney is subject to any other suspension listed in division (A) of this section.

Section 13.

Signing of Notices and Orders.

The Director of Attorney Services shall have authority to sign notices and orders issued in

accordance with this rule.

Section 14.

Attorney Services Fund.

(A)

Collection and use of fees

Except as otherwise provided in these rules, all fees collected pursuant to these rules shall

be deposited in the Attorney Services Fund. Moneys in the fund shall be used for the

following purposes:

(1)

The investigation of complaints of alleged misconduct pursuant to Gov. Bar

R. V or Gov. Jud. R. II and the investigation of the alleged unauthorized practice

of law pursuant to Gov. Bar R. VII;

(2)

To support the activities of the Lawyers’ Fund for Client Protection

established under Gov. Bar R. VIII;

To support the activities of the Commission on Continuing Legal Education

pursuant to Gov. Bar R. X;

For matters approved by the Court and relating to the admission of

applicants to the practice of law or relating to the certification of Foreign Legal

Consultants and for the administration and operation of all of the following:

(a)

The Board of Bar Examiners;

(b)

The Board of Commissioners on Character and Fitness, including

the fees and expenses of special investigators appointed by the Board under

Gov. Bar R. I, Sec. 12(B)(2)(f);

to the admission of

applicants to the practice of law or relating to the certification of Foreign Legal

Consultants and for the administration and operation of all of the following:

(a)

The Board of Bar Examiners;

(b)

The Board of Commissioners on Character and Fitness, including

the fees and expenses of special investigators appointed by the Board under

Gov. Bar R. I, Sec. 12(B)(2)(f);

(c)

The admissions committees, provided, however, that such use of the

funds shall be limited to reimbursing admissions committees for costs

incurred in conducting investigations under Gov. Bar R. I, Sec. 13.

(5)

Any other purposes considered necessary by the Supreme Court for the

government of the bar and of the judiciary of Ohio;

(6)

To support any other activities related to the administration of justice

considered necessary by the Supreme Court.

(B)

Transfer of funds to Treasurer of State

In addition to the purposes set forth in division (A) of this section, moneys in the Attorney

Services Fund may be transferred to the credit of the Supreme Court Attorney Services

Fund in the state treasury. Investment earnings on moneys transferred to the Supreme

Court Attorney Services Fund in the state treasury shall be credited to that fund.

(C)

Annual Report

On or before the first day of November each year, the Administrative Director of the

Supreme Court shall prepare and publish a report on the activity of the Attorney Services

Fund.

Section 15.

Certificates of Good Standing.

(A)

Authority

Pursuant to the requirements of this section, the Office of Attorney Services may issue the

following certificates of good standing for attorneys admitted to the practice of law in Ohio:

(1)

A standard certificate of good standing, which shall include the attorney’s

full name, attorney registration number, and current registration status;

5.

Certificates of Good Standing.

(A)

Authority

Pursuant to the requirements of this section, the Office of Attorney Services may issue the

following certificates of good standing for attorneys admitted to the practice of law in Ohio:

(1)

A standard certificate of good standing, which shall include the attorney’s

full name, attorney registration number, and current registration status;

(2)

A certificate of good standing with disciplinary information, which shall

include the attorney’s full name; attorney registration number; current registration

status; and a summary of any administrative actions, including sanctions and

suspensions, and disciplinary information or, if applicable, a statement the attorney

has not been subject to any administrative actions or discipline by the Supreme

Court.

(B)

Request for certificate

Any person may request the Office of Attorney Services issue either a standard certificate

of good standing or a certificate of good standing with disciplinary information for an

attorney who is admitted to the practice of law in Ohio by submitting to the office the

following:

(1)

A request on a form provided by the office;

(2)

A nonrefundable fee of twenty dollars for a request for a standard certificate

of good standing or thirty-five dollars for a request for a certificate of good standing

with disciplinary information;

(3)

A nonrefundable fee of fifty dollars for a request made by 2 p.m. eastern

time for an expedited same-day certificate of good standing.

(C)

Review of Supreme Court records

(1)

Upon receipt of a request pursuant to division (B) of this rule, the Director of

Attorney Services shall review the records of the Supreme Court and determine whether

the attorney is in good standing. The determination of the director shall be final.

(2)

The attorney shall be in good standing if all of the following requirements are met:

(a)

The attorney is in compliance with the attorney registration requirements of

Gov. Bar R. VI;

(B) of this rule, the Director of

Attorney Services shall review the records of the Supreme Court and determine whether

the attorney is in good standing. The determination of the director shall be final.

(2)

The attorney shall be in good standing if all of the following requirements are met:

(a)

The attorney is in compliance with the attorney registration requirements of

Gov. Bar R. VI;

(b)

The attorney is in compliance with the continuing legal education

requirements of Gov. Bar R. X;

(c)

The attorney is not subject to discipline by order of the Supreme Court

pursuant to Gov. Bar R. V, excluding an order of public reprimand, and has no

outstanding fees or restitution ordered by the Court or payable to the Court.

(3)

The attorney shall not be in good standing if any of the following apply:

(a)

The attorney is not registered with the Office of Attorney Services by

September 1 of every odd-numbered year or within thirty days of admission to the

practice of law in Ohio in compliance with the attorney registration requirements

of Gov. Bar R. VI;

(b)

The attorney is not in compliance with the continuing legal education

requirements of Gov. Bar R. X;

(c)

The attorney is subject to an order of suspension pursuant to Gov. Bar R. V,

including any suspension that has been stayed, in whole or in part;

(d)

The attorney is subject to an order of probation pursuant to Gov. Bar R. V,

including any probation that has not been terminated by order of the court;

(e)

The attorney is subject to an order of suspension pursuant to Gov. Bar R.

VI;

(f)

The attorney is subject to an order of sanction or order of suspension

pursuant to Gov. Bar R. X;

(g)

The attorney has any outstanding sanctions or fees due to the Supreme

Court, including but not limited to costs imposed under Gov. Bar R. V, sanctions

or fees due under Gov. Bar R. VI or X, or unreimbursed amounts due to the

Lawyers’ Fund for Client Protection;

t to Gov. Bar R.

VI;

(f)

The attorney is subject to an order of sanction or order of suspension

pursuant to Gov. Bar R. X;

(g)

The attorney has any outstanding sanctions or fees due to the Supreme

Court, including but not limited to costs imposed under Gov. Bar R. V, sanctions

or fees due under Gov. Bar R. VI or X, or unreimbursed amounts due to the

Lawyers’ Fund for Client Protection;

(h)

The attorney is disbarred, retired, or resigned with disciplinary action

pending.

(D)

Issuance of certificate

Upon a determination by the Director of Attorney Services that an attorney is in good

standing pursuant to division (C) of this section, the Office of Attorney Services shall issue

the standard certificate of good standing or certificate of good standing with disciplinary

information, as requested. The certificate shall include the seal of the Supreme Court.

Section 16.

Public Access to Records.

(A)

General

Except for residence addresses, residence telephone numbers, email addresses, email

service addresses, and social security numbers, information maintained by the Office of

Attorney Services, provided by the office to another office of the Supreme Court, or

provided by the office to the Ohio Access to Justice Foundation pursuant Section 4(D)(2)

of this rule shall be available for public access pursuant to Sup. R. 44 through 47.

(B)

Residence address

If the attorney has not provided a valid office address, the attorney’s residential address

shall be considered available for public access pursuant to Sup. R. 44 through 47.

(C)

Use of e-mail addresses

Offices of the Supreme Court may use e-mail addresses maintained by the Office of

Attorney Services to advise attorneys of matters related to the practice of law.

(B)

Residence address

If the attorney has not provided a valid office address, the attorney’s residential address

shall be considered available for public access pursuant to Sup. R. 44 through 47.

(C)

Use of e-mail addresses

Offices of the Supreme Court may use e-mail addresses maintained by the Office of

Attorney Services to advise attorneys of matters related to the practice of law.

[Not analogous to former Rule VI, effective February 28, 1972; amended effective January 1,

1981; November 17, 1982; July 1, 1983; May 13, 1985; July 1, 1986; January 1, 1989; July 1,

1991; September 1, 1991; January 1, 1992; July 1, 1992; July 1, 1993; January 1, 1995; July 1,

1995; November 1, 1995; July 1, 1997; July 1, 1999; November 28, 2000; June 1, 2002; August

19, 2002; November 1, 2002; July 1, 2003; July 1, 2005; September 1, 2005; July 1, 2007;

September 1, 2007; January 1, 2008; May 1, 2009; September 1, 2010; January 1, 2012; January

1, 2013; November 1, 2013; January 1, 2015; April 1, 2015; December 1, 2015; July 1, 2016;

September 15, 2016; November 1, 2017; November 1, 2018; July 1, 2019; February 1, 2020; June

1, 2020; November 1, 2020; July 1, 2021; January 1, 2023; July 1, 2023; March 13, 2024; January

1, 2025; July 1, 2025.]