NY Appellate Division Third Dept Office of Attorney Admissions – Albany, NY

Gateway to the Legal Profession

Admission and Licensure

The Office of Attorney Admissions for the Appellate Division, Third Judicial Department, is the administrative body responsible for processing all applications for admission to the practice of law within New York’s vast Third Judicial Department. Located in the Robert Abrams Building for Law and Justice on State Street, this office serves as the gatekeeper for the legal profession in a region that spans 28 counties, from the Canadian border to the lower Catskills. The staff manages the certification of candidates who have passed the New York State Bar Examination, as well as those seeking admission on motion from other jurisdictions. They work closely with the Committees on Character and Fitness to ensure that every applicant possesses the requisite moral character and general fitness to serve as an officer of the court.

Professional Standing and Records

Beyond initial admission, this office is the primary resource for existing attorneys who need to verify their professional status. They issue Certificates of Good Standing, which are often required for practicing in other courts or jurisdictions. The office also processes attorney name changes, registers in-house counsel, and manages the licensing of foreign legal consultants. While attorney registration fees are handled centrally, the Admissions Office maintains the official roll of attorneys admitted in the Third Department, serving as a vital record-keeping hub for the state’s judiciary.

Character and Fitness Review

A critical function of the department is the oversight of the Character and Fitness investigation. Before an attorney can take the constitutional oath of office, they must undergo a rigorous background check. The Admissions Office coordinates the submission of detailed questionnaires and supporting documentation, facilitating interviews with members of the Committee on Character and Fitness. This process ensures the integrity of the legal system by verifying that all admitted attorneys adhere to the highest ethical standards.

• Bar Admission: Processing applications for new attorneys.
• Good Standing: Issuing certificates for professional verification.
• Character Review: Coordinating background investigations.
• Pro Hac Vice: Managing temporary admission for out-of-state lawyers.
• Legal Records: Maintaining the official roll of Third Department attorneys.