Abandoned Client Files

Under Gov.Bar R.V(26)(A), ODC may obtain the client files of an attorney who has died, disappeared, been disciplined, been deported, or is incapacitated. ODC exercises this authority based on staff time and storage space constraints. ODC is not, however, required to take over an attorney’s client files.

Please understand that the files retrieved may not comprise all of an attorney’s client files. ODC cannot guarantee that a particular file will be among those we retrieve. Further, the condition of the space in which the files were stored or the files themselves may result in summary destruction of the files. Things like mold, mildew, insects, and exposed asbestos may cause us to destroy files so as not to endanger our employees while still ensuring that the clients' personal identifying information is protected.

For more information about how to handle client files, please refer to the pamphlet found here.