On Thursday, July 17, 2025, the New York Supreme Court, Appellate Division, First Judicial Department denied attorney Chris Chukolems Olewuenyi’s bid for reinstatement to the New York State Bar.
The case is entitled “In the Matter of Chris Chukolems Olewuenyi,” with case no. 2024-02088
Olewuenyi was disbarred effective May 18, 2015, by a court order issued on March 24, 2016. On March 26, 2024, he filed a motion seeking reinstatement as an attorney, citing compliance with reinstatement requirements under state regulations.
The court, on July 2, 2024, referred the matter to a referee for a hearing to evaluate whether Olewuenyi met the necessary standards, including compliance with the disbarment order, demonstration of good character, and general fitness to practice law.
The referee conducted the hearing and, in a report dated March 10, 2025, recommended denying Olewuenyi’s reinstatement application. On April 10, 2025, Olewuenyi moved to challenge the referee’s findings, requesting the court to overturn the recommendation and grant his reinstatement.
In response, the Attorney Grievance Committee filed a cross-motion on April 17, 2025, urging the court to uphold the referee’s report and deny the reinstatement.
After reviewing the motions and deliberating, the New York Court denied Olewuenyi’s motion and granted the Attorney Grievance Committee’s cross-motion. The court’s ruling reaffirmed the referee’s recommendation, barring Olewuenyi from resuming his legal practice in New York.
A copy of the original filing can be found here.
