Ohio unauthorized practice rule amendments

The Ohio Supreme Court announced last Monday its accepting public commentary on rule changes governing the unauthorized practice of law in the state. ( Announcement )

Technically, two rules apply, the proposed amendment to Rule VI of the Rules Governing the Bar of Ohio revises the definition of unauthorized practice to identify the Board of Commissioners on Grievances & Discipline as the proper venue for UPL complaints against suspended attorneys, while the current rule says a suspended attorney may be referred for investigation to the UPL board.

Rule VII’s amendment makes a number of changes to the Rules, including revising the definition of "unauthorized practice of law," making "non-substantive changes to conform with the Court’s Rule Drafting Manual," and authorizing the Attorney General to investigate and prosecute complex UPL cases.

The Supreme Court will accept public comments on the proposed amendments until April 13, 2010. Comments should be submitted in writing to: Michelle Hall, Attorney Services Counsel, Supreme Court of Ohio, 65 South Front Street, 5th Floor, Columbus, Ohio 43215-3431, or @ Michelle.Hall@sc.ohio.gov not later than that date. Please include your full name and mailing address in any comments submitted by e-mail.