IN THE MATTER OF THE REINSTATEMENT OF: RAHHAL

IN THE MATTER OF THE REINSTATEMENT OF: RAHHAL
2005 OK 25
Case Number: SCBD-4957
Decided: 04/05/2005

THE SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF OKLAHOMA

IN THE MATTER OF THE REINSTATEMENT OF: STEVEN L. RAHHAL, TO MEMBERSHIP IN THE OKLAHOMA BAR ASSOCIATION AND TO THE ROLL OF ATTORNEYS.

ORDER

¶1 On September 9, 1991, Steven L. Rahhal (Rahhal/attorney) was stricken from the roll of attorneys for nonpayment of dues and for failure to complete mandatory continuing legal education requirements. The attorney has not previously sought reinstatement. On January 6, 2005, a hearing was held before the Trial Panel of the Professional Responsibility Tribunal. Upon a de novo review, THE COURT DETERMINES THAT:

1) This Court has exclusive jurisdiction exercising de novo review over any reinstatement proceedings. [Matter of Reinstatement of McKenzie, 1996 OK 72, ¶2, 925 P.2d 18; State ex rel. Oklahoma Bar Ass'n v. Samara, 1984 OK 32, ¶16, 683 P.2d 979];

2) The constitutional duty to oversee the practicing bar to insure that its members are fit to practice law rests with this Court. [State ex rel. Oklahoma Bar Ass'n v. Busch, 1996 OK 38, ¶29, 919 P.2d 1114];

1)The attorney has presented clear and convincing evidence sufficient to support reinstatement. [Rule 11.4, Rules Governing Disciplinary Proceedings, 5 O.S. 2001, Ch. 1, App, 1-A];

2) Reinstatement should be granted;

3) Costs of $267.45 should be imposed.

¶2 IT IS THEREFORE ORDERED, ADJUDGED AND DECREED that the application of Steven L. Rahhal for reinstatement of his license to practice law is hereby granted. Costs of $267.45 are imposed as a prerequisite to reinstatement.

¶3 DONE BY ORDER OF THE SUPREME COURT IN CONFERENCE THIS 4TH DAY OF APRIL, 2005.

/S/CHIEF JUSTICE