The Maryland Judiciary has announced the launch of the Attorney Information System (AIS), a new database that consolidates information about attorneys in Maryland. This system is designed to assist court-related agencies that support the Court of Appeals in regulating the legal profession within the state.
AIS offers a centralized portal for lawyers to update personal details, access disciplinary history and status, and submit mandatory annual reports. Initially, attorneys will use AIS to manage their information with the Court of Appeals, the Client Protection Fund, and the Administrative Office of the Courts. Lawyers are required to specify a primary address and can choose to keep any address confidential. Additionally, they can view their status, including past administrative and disciplinary actions, relevant court orders, and whether they have been restored to good standing.
Mary Ellen Barbera, Chief Judge of the Court of Appeals, stated: “The Attorney Information System represents a significant investment by the Judiciary to improve the internal management of attorney records and to facilitate for attorneys both the reporting of required information and access to their status history.” She further noted that bringing AIS from concept to reality involved extensive collaboration within the Judiciary.
In April 2017, Maryland attorneys will receive instructions via regular mail on how to activate an AIS account. An email address will be necessary for account activation and online updates.