Attorney Grievance Commission v. Shephard

**What the Case Was About** The Attorney Grievance Commission brought disciplinary charges against Tawana D. Shephard, who was working as a Managing Attorney at Glenmore Law Firm despite not being licensed to practice law in Maryland. The Commission alleged that Shephard violated several professional conduct rules for lawyers while in this position. **What the Court Decided** The hearing judge ruled in favor of the Attorney Grievance Commission. The court found clear and convincing evidence that Shephard had indeed violated multiple Maryland Lawyers' Rules of Professional Conduct and related regulations. The court determined that her actions while serving as Managing Attorney at the law firm were improper given her lack of Maryland licensing. **Why This Matters for Workers** This case highlights the importance of professional licensing requirements in the workplace. Workers should be aware that certain positions require specific licenses or certifications, and employers must ensure their staff meet these legal requirements. If you're in a regulated profession, make sure you have the proper credentials for your role and jurisdiction. This protects both you and your clients, and violations can result in serious professional consequences including disciplinary action.