On Thursday, March 5, 2026, the New York Supreme Court, Appellate Division, First Judicial Department granted a joint motion for discipline by consent, suspending attorney Matthew Cantor from practicing law for 18 months, retroactive to October 14, 2024.
The case is entitled “In the Matter of Matthew Cantor,” with case number 2024-06670.
The disciplinary action stems from Cantor’s failure to file attorney registration statements and pay biennial registration fees, violating Judiciary Law § 468-a. This led to an initial suspension on November 17, 2022, as part of a mass suspension proceeding. Despite the suspension, Cantor continued to practice law until October 14, 2024.
The Attorney Grievance Committee (AGC) for the First Judicial Department initiated disciplinary proceedings against Cantor. After his initial suspension, Cantor sought reinstatement, but the AGC opposed this, citing his unauthorized practice of law during the suspension and the need for further investigation. The court denied Cantor’s motion for reinstatement on December 16, 2024, pending the outcome of the AGC’s investigation.
On August 7, 2025, the AGC served Cantor with a notice and petition of charges, alleging he “engaged in the unauthorized practice of law while suspended by this Court for approximately two (2) years; specifically, from November 17, 2022, to October 14, 2024.”
Both parties then jointly moved for discipline by consent under the Rules for Attorney Disciplinary Matters (22 NYCRR) § 1240.8(a)(5), requesting the court to impose an 18-month suspension. This motion was supported by a joint affirmation that included a stipulation of facts, factors of aggravation and mitigation, agreed-upon discipline, relevant case law, Cantor’s affidavit containing conditional admissions, his consent to the agreed-upon discipline, and his acknowledgment of the consequences.
The court’s decision also mandates that Cantor comply with Judiciary Law § 90 during his suspension. He is prohibited from practicing law in any form, appearing as an attorney before any court or public authority, giving legal opinions or advice, and holding himself out as an attorney. Additionally, Cantor must adhere to the rules governing the conduct of disbarred or suspended attorneys, as outlined in 22 NYCRR 1240.15.
A copy of the original filing can be found here.
