MEMBER STATUS DEFINITIONS
Active– Every person licensed to practice law in the state shall be deemed an active member of the state bar until, at his/her request, he/she is enrolled as an inactive member or other classification.
Inactive- Member of the state bar not actively engaged in the practice of law in this state, or holding any judicial office in this state, or occupying a position in the employ of or rendering any legal service for an active member, or occupying a position where he/she is called upon to give legal advice or counsel or examine the law or pass upon the legal effect of any act, document, or law in this state.
Disability Inactive– If an attorney is found by stipulation or otherwise to be unable to adequately defend against disciplinary charges due to a disability caused by mental or physical infirmity, illness, or addiction, the court may transfer the attorney to disability inactive status until a determination is made of the attorney’s capacity to continue practicing law. Ineligible to practice law until further order of the court. Attorney may petition the court for reinstatement to active status once per year, or such other intervals as the court may direct, and must prove that the disability is removed and that the attorney is fit to practice.
Administrative Suspension– Attorneys may be administratively suspended for failure to pay license fees (SCR98(12)). While these are not disciplinary suspensions, the attorney is ineligible to practice law until the deficiency is remedied and the procedures to transfer back to active status completed as set forth in the applicable rules.
Resigned– Any member of the state bar who is not actively engaged in the practice of law in this state, upon written application on a form approved by the state bar, may resign from membership in the state bar if the member: (a) has no discipline, fee dispute arbitration, or clients’ security fund matters pending; and (b) is current on all membership fee payments and other financial commitments relating to the member’s practice of law in Nevada.
Resigned with Charges Pending– An attorney against whom charges are pending may, with the approval of Bar Counsel, stipulate to resignation (subject to court approval). Ineligible to practice law. Resignation is irrevocable with readmission only possible upon application as a new admittee.
Disbarment– License to practice revoked. Attorney may not petition for reinstatement for a minimum of three years from effective date of disbarment. Notice be registered or certified mail required for all clients with matters pending. Reinstatement, if granted by the court, requires proof of fitness to practice law and satisfaction of any conditions imposed by the court (eg. passing the bar exam and/or MPRE, paying restitution, probation, etc.)