On Thursday, November 14, 2024, the New York Supreme Court, Appellate Division, First Judicial Department granted the motion of disbarred attorney Loreto S. Kudera, allowing his case for reinstatement to proceed before a referee. Kudera was disbarred on May 4, 2017, due to violations of Judiciary Law §§ 90(4)(a) and (b).
The case is entitled “In the Matter of Loreto S. Kudera,” with case no. 2024-05435.
In his recent motion filed on September 30, 2024, Kudera sought to be reinstated as an attorney and counselor-at-law. The application was supported by a letter from the Lawyers’ Fund for Client Protection, which indicated that it did not object to his reinstatement. However, the Attorney Grievance Committee, represented by Chief Attorney Jorge Dopico, opposed the motion. The Committee requested that should the court find it appropriate, the matter be referred to a referee for a thorough hearing to assess whether Kudera met the necessary criteria for reinstatement under 22 NYCRR 1240.16(a).
After reviewing the motion and related documents, the court decided to refer Kudera’s case to George Davidson, Esq., who will act as the referee. Kudera will need to demonstrate by clear and convincing evidence that he has adhered to the disbarment order, complied with court rules, and possesses the character and fitness necessary to resume the practice of law. The referee is tasked with conducting the hearing within 60 days and will subsequently provide a report and recommendation to the court regarding Kudera’s eligibility for reinstatement.
According to the filing, Mr. Kudera acquired his law license in New York in 2007.
A copy of the original filing can be found here.
