As the deadline approaches, the Maryland Judiciary is reminding all lawyers practicing in the state, including judges and law clerks, to register with the Attorney Information System (AIS) by June 1. This requirement is essential for maintaining their license to practice law.
The AIS serves as a comprehensive database that consolidates information about Maryland attorneys. It is managed by court-related agencies supporting the Court of Appeals in its regulatory role over the legal profession in Maryland.
Attorneys utilize AIS to meet various reporting and assessment obligations. According to Maryland Rule 19-802(b), all attorneys must activate their registration in AIS by June 1, 2019. This ensures they receive future communications concerning their legal practice licenses.
Starting in July, Maryland attorneys will be notified via email to pay the annual Client Protection Fund assessment and complete online reports on pro bono activities and Interest on Lawyers Trust Accounts (IOLTA). The data from pro bono services aids the Maryland Judiciary in planning and promoting such activities, while interest from IOLTA accounts funds civil legal aid programs statewide. Attorneys are required to submit these reports and pay assessments by September 10 each year. Payment can be made online or via U.S. mail; however, pro bono and IOLTA reports must be completed online.
The changes implemented on January 1, 2019, have streamlined several processes into a single compliance cycle for Maryland attorneys. This annual process aims to simplify fulfilling requirements necessary for remaining in good standing.
For more information regarding attorney compliance requirements and AIS registration, visit https://mdcourts.gov/lawyers/ais.