ALABAMA STATE BAR

THE DISCIPLINARY COMMISSION

TELEPHONE 334-269-1515
P.O. BOX 671
MONTGOMERY, AL 36101
FAX 334/2616311 DELIVERY ADDRESS
415 DEXTER AVENUE
MONTGOMERY. AL 36104

MEMORANDUM

To: Complainant

From: Disciplinary Commission

Subject: Filing of Complaint Against A Lawyer

Due to limited storage we now scan all materials, which include complaints and attorneys'

responses. Therefore, we ask that when you submit your complaint, please do not bind,

staple, or insert tabbed dividers. If you want to identify exhibits, please mark them in the

bottom corner or insert identifiable sheets before each exhibit. Three-ring binders are also

unnecessary. Also, if you wish to make note of an item on one of your exhibits please do

not use a sticky note. Instead, write your remarks on a sheet of paper placed in front of the

page on which you are commenting.

RULE 30 ALABAMA RULES OF DISCIPLINARY PROCEDURE OF THE ALABAMA STATE BAR, ADOPTED BY THE SUPREME COURT OF ALABAMA. PROVIDES THATALL
DISCIPLINARY PROCEEDINGS SHALL REMAIN CONFIDENTIAL UNTIL A PLEA OF GUILTY OR THE DISCIPLINARY BOARD OR DISCIPLINARY COMMISSION MAKES A
FINDING OF GUILT.
 IMPORTANT!
Read this brochure before completing the attached complaint form.

Complaints Against Alabama Lawyers

T his brochure is for anyone who is considering filing a complaint against a lawyer with the
A labama State Bar. It explains how and where to file a complaint against an A labama lawyer.
T he Supreme C ourt of A labama, through the A labama State Bar, regulates lawyer conduct in
this state. Filing a complaint is a very serious matter.

Filing a Complaint
A ll lawyers who practice law in A labama must be members of the A labama State Bar. T he
A labama State Bar’s grievance system was established by the Supreme C ourt of A labama to
enforce uniform standards of professional conduct for lawyers. Filing a complaint should not
take the place of communicating with your lawyer in an attempt to resolve differences. If your
problem is the result of a misunderstanding or a breakdown in communication, the problem
may be solved by a candid talk with your lawyer. If you have made a sincere effort to resolve
your problem and still believe that the lawyer may have violated an ethics rule, file your
complaint. A complaint should not be made lightly or used to try to gain an advantage in your
transactions with a lawyer. A lawyer who is accused of misconduct suffers whether or not he is
found to be at fault. M ore than a claim of misconduct is needed to justify discipline. It takes
evidence—proof.

How To File a Complaint

A fter you have completed reading this brochure, you must submit your complaint by using
the enclosed C omplaint Form. A dditional pages may be attached. A ttach copies of any
documents that support your allegations. Please do not send original documents. T he Bar will
not copy your documents and return them to you. T he complaint should be signed, in the
presence of, and notarized by a notary public. T he A labama State Bar does not charge you fees
or costs for filing your complaint against an A labama lawyer.

What Happens After You File a Complaint

A ll complaints filed with the A labama State Bar are reviewed by Bar counsel to determine if the
complaint has sufficient merit to warrant a full investigation. In most cases, a copy of your
complaint is sent to the lawyer for a response. Once the lawyer’s response is received, your
complaint and his response will be reviewed again by Bar counsel to determine what further
action, if any, should be taken. Y ou will be sent written notification of the decision. If it is
determined that there is insufficient evidence to merit a formal investigation, then you will be
notified. H owever, if there is sufficient information to establish that an ethics violation possibly
occurred, a formal investigation will be opened. Some investigations will be sent to local Bar
grievance committees, and others will be investigated by the Bar.
T he processing of most formal investigations at this stage can take anywhere from six to
eighteen months, depending on the complexity of the situation. Y ou will be notified in w riting
about the outcome of your complaint. Y ou may be contacted during the investigation. If a
hearing is held before the D isciplinary Board, you may be required to attend and testify.
What the Complaint Process Cannot Do
• R ecover money damages;
• Set aside a criminal conviction;
• M ake the lawyer take action you wish him or her to take;
• Offer assistance with your pending legal matter or provide legal advice;
• Substitute for other civil or criminal
remedies;
• R esolve disputed lawyer’s fees (see “ Fee D isputes” );
• Punish the rude behavior of a lawyer;
• A ssist with complaints against sitting judges;
• A ddress allegations that lawyers acting as guardians ad litem have taken positions with
which you disagree; or
• R esolve disputes over debts of a lawyer, such as a lawyer’s failure to pay a bill to you.
N ot all allegations of misconduct amount to a violation of an ethics rule. A n honest
disagreement between a lawyer and client about the handling of a case is not misconduct. A
mistake or error of judgment is not a cause for discipline.

What Happens If It Is Determined That a Lawyer Violated an Ethics Rule

If the D isciplinary C ommission determines that the lawyer has violated an ethics rule, they
may impose discipline. T he lawyer is notified of the C ommission’s decision. T he lawyer is
normally given 14 days to: (1) accept the proposed discipline; (2) request reconsideration upon
submitting additional evidence; or (3) demand formal charges and a hearing.

How a Lawyer May Be Disciplined

Probation - T he lawyer will be monitored, may be required to report to a disciplinary
authority, and his practice may be restricted during a specific period of time.
Private reprimand - A written reprimand, signed by the President of the A labama State Bar is
sent to the lawyer and placed in the lawyer’s permanent file.

Public reprimand - T here are two types. In both, the lawyer must appear before a public
meeting of the Board of Bar C ommissioners, where the reprimand will be read to him by the
President of the A labama State Bar. H owever, one type of public reprimand will be published in
both the local newspaper where the lawyer practices and T he A labama L awyer (a publication
that is distributed to all members of the A labama State Bar). T he other type of public reprimand
is published only in T he A labama L awyer. T hese reprimands are also placed in the law yer’s
permanent file.

Suspension - T he lawyer is suspended from practicing law for a specific amount of time,
ranging from 45 days to five years. D epending on the length of suspension, lawyers may be
reinstated to practice law without a hearing. In some cases a lawyer may not resume the
practice of law until reinstated after public notice and a hearing.

D isbarment - T he lawyer is disbarred. A disbarment is for a period of five years. T he lawyer

must petition the Bar for reinstatement in order to be allowed to resume the practice of law.

Fee Disputes
 Fee disputes are not handled by the A labama State Bar’s grievance system because fee
disputes generally do not involve questions of ethics or professional conduct.

Client Security Funds

T he C lient Security Fund was established by the A labama State Bar to provide reimbursement
to individuals who have lost money or property due to the dishonesty of an A labama lawyer.
A ll claims are investigated by the C lient Security Fund C ommittee. R eimbursement is made at
the discretion of the C lient Security Fund C ommittee in appropriate cases. T here is no right to
reimbursement and reimbursement is limited. T he Fund is a remedy of last resort for those who
cannot obtain reimbursement from other sources. It you wish to make application to this fund
please contact the A labama State Bar for additional information.

Who Will Know About Your Complaint and the Information Provided to the Bar
I n most instances, the law yer w ill be sent a copy of your complaint and copies of the
information you provide. T he rules of the Supreme C ourt of A labama require that the A labama
State Bar treat all inquiries and complaints filed w ith the O ffice of G eneral C ounsel as
confidential, unless discipline has been imposed. H owever, during the course of the
investigation, the investigator may need to contact w itnesses for additional information.
Y ou, as the complainant, have absolute immunity from suit for filing your complaint.
W itnesses who may be required to testify at a hearing also have immunity from suit resulting
from their participation in the grievance process.
Y our complaint will receive the A labama State Bar’s prompt attention and every attempt will
be made to resolve your complaint in a manner which is fair to both you and the lawyer.

A labama State Bar

C enter for Professional R esponsibility
415 D exter A venue
M ontgomery, A L 36104
334-269-1515
www.alabar.org

Single copies of this brochure and others are free upon request by contacting the A labama State Bar at the
above listed number or Web site.
COMPLAINT AGAINST A LAWYER
Return your completed form to:
Alabama State Bar
Disciplinary Commission
P. O. Box 671
Montgomery, AL 36101-0671

NAME AND ADDRESS OF COMPLAINANT NAME AND ADDRESS OF ATTORNEY

AGAINST WHOM YOUR COMPLAINT IS
_______________________________________ MADE
Last Name, First Name
_______________________________________
_______________________________________ Last Name, First Name
Address

_______________________________________ _______________________________________________
E-mail Address Name of Law Firm Where Attorney is Employed

_______________________________________ _______________________________________
City, State, ZIP Code Address

_______________________________________ _______________________________________
Telephone Number(s) City, State, ZIP Code

_______________________________________ _______________________________________
Name & Relationship of Person Who Can Always Contact Telephone Number(s)
You
_______________________________________
Telephone Number(s)

On what date did the alleged ethics violation occur? ___________________________________________

What was your fee arrangement with the attorney? ________________________________________

COMPLAINT INSTRUCTIONS:

1. If you have a complaint against more than one attorney, use a SEPARATE complaint form for each
attorney, with the details and relevant exhibits attached to each separate complaint. If you are filing more
than one complaint, do not combine your complaint details or your exhibits into one document, or make a
specific comment about a complaint filed against another attorney, or it will be returned to you. We will not
accept complaints against law firms.
2. Send your complaint with an original notarized signature. We will not accept a copy of your signature.
3. State specifically, on each individual complaint, what the attorney did or failed to do which you believe
constitutes unethical conduct, and when it occurred.
4. Attach COPIES of any receipts, contracts, or other documents which are important to the complaint, to the
back of each individual complaint. Keep your own original documents.
5. Please, do not bind your complaint. Type or write your complaint legibly in ink so it can be copied.
6. You may add more pages to this form if necessary.
7. If you believe that drugs, alcohol or mental disability affected the lawyer’s representation, please state what
facts support your belief.
8. This matter is confidential at this stage of the proceedings, until the Disciplinary Commission or Board has
acted.
 9. The Alabama Bar Association does not represent you in this matter but acts to investigate complaints on
behalf of the Supreme Court of Alabama.

If there is a court case related to your complaint, please provide the case name and file number, and the lawyer
representing you?

____________________________________________________________________________________________

DETAILS OF YOUR COMPLAINT

Explain your complaint in your own words. Include the following: all important dates, times, places, and court file
numbers. Please be advised we cannot return documents submitted to this office. You should retain a copy of all
materials you submit. Do not send cassette tapes unless requested by the Bar to do so. The Alabama State Bar
cannot be held responsible for lost, misdirected or damaged documents.

The attorney you are filing the complaint against will receive a copy of your complaint, and may be asked to
respond to your allegations.

I hereby certify that the information I am providing is true and accurate to the best of my knowledge and that I will
voluntarily appear and testify to the facts in the complaint if called upon by the Alabama State Bar.

________________________________________
Name (signature)

Date: __________________________________

Sworn to and subscribed before me this _______ day of _________________________________, __________ .

[SEAL] ________________________________________
NOTARY PUBLIC

MY COMMISSION EXPIRES: _______________________________

 SUPREME COURT OF ARKANSAS - OFFICE OF PROFESSIONAL CONDUCT
2100 Riverfront Drive, Suite 200, Little Rock, Arkansas 72202-1747
Telephone: (501) 376-0313 / Toll Free: (800) 506-6631 / Facsimile: (501) 376-3438

GRIEVANCE FORM AGAINST ATTORNEY - PLEASE READ INSTRUCTIONS CAREFULLY

ALL INFORMATION YOU SUBMIT TO US AND WE SUBMIT TO YOU IS CONFIDENTIAL UNDER

SUPREME COURT RULE. ANYONE VIOLATING THIS CONFIDENTIALITY MAY BE FOUND TO BE IN
CONTEMPT OF THE COURT AND PUNISHED BY FINE OR JAIL.

Function of The Committee on Professional Conduct:

The Committee on Professional Conduct has the authority to discipline attorneys for violation of the Arkansas Rules
of Professional Conduct adopted by the Supreme Court. The Committee can issue letters of warning, caution or
reprimand, suspend the attorney’s license or file in court seeking disbarment. The Committee’s authority is limited to
matters addressed by the Rules and to the sanctions set out above. It has no authority to compel an attorney to take
any particular course of action nor does the Committee become involved in litigation of legal matters. Please
understand that the Office of Professional Conduct cannot represent you, give you any legal advice, effect or change
the outcome of a court decision, or recover money for you.

Filing a Complaint:
If you feel that an attorney has acted in a manner that violates the standards of professional conduct, fill out, as
completely as possible, the attached grievance form and return it to this office. Include photocopies of any
documents, letters, agreements, checks, receipts or other papers and/or material that are relevant to your
complaint. Please do not mark, write, underline, make notations, or comments on any records, transcripts,
letters, documents or other written material that you attach to your grievance form as supporting
documentation. If sufficient cause is found to file a formal complaint, some or all of your supporting documentation
may be included as exhibits. If you wish to specifically point out some part of a particular document, you may refer
to it in the narrative portion of your grievance form. Please insure that the narrative account of the lawyer’s actions of
which you complain is FACTUAL. Conclusory statements such as “He’s a liar”, “He didn’t do me right”, “He’s
incompetent”, etc., have no evidentiary value and do not assist in the evaluation of your complaint. If you feel the
attorney did not represent you correctly, you should consult a private attorney about your legal rights. You
should not wait for the outcome of any investigation or action by our office or the Committee.

Complaint Process:
We will review the information in your complaint form, conduct any necessary investigation, and inform you whether
your concerns fall within the Committee’s limited authority. If a formal complaint is warranted, we will assist you in
the preparation of an affidavit of complaint. The formal complaint and a copy of your affidavit will be sent to the
attorney, who may submit a response. You will get a copy of any response and have the opportunity for rebuttal, if
appropriate. All these documents will then be forwarded to the Committee for its review and action. You will be
advised in writing of the Committee’s final action. In some instances, the Committee will conduct a public hearing on
a complaint. If that should occur, you may have to appear and testify at the hearing. This office does not provide
copies of the Arkansas Supreme Court Arkansas Rules of Professional Conduct. If you have access to the internet
these rules can be found at the website http://courts.arkansas.gov under “Attorney Discipline.”

ANY DOCUMENTS YOU ATTACH TO THE GRIEVANCE FORM ARE RETAINED IN OUR OFFICE.
It is important you keep all original documents. Our office only needs clear, photocopied documents
attached to the grievance. Should you need copies of documents in your file in the future, you will be
charged $.25 cent per page.

(Rev. 1.3, 07/28/2017)

Page 1 of 3
ARKANSAS SUPREME COURT Office Use ONLY:
COMMITTEE ON PROFESSIONAL CONDUCT
GRIEVANCE FORM
T-______________
PART A: YOUR INFORMATION (Please PRINT, keep
A:______________
current & notify us immediately of any changes)

Your name:
(First) (Middle) (Last)

Address: City: State: Zip:

County: (If inmate ADC No.): (Facility):

Telephone (Home): (Work): (Cell):

Spouse/Other Contact Name: Spouse/Other Cell:

(If applies) (If applies)

E-Mail: Fax No.:

Employer: Address:
If you are currently represented by an attorney, please provide:

Attorney’s Full Name:

Address: Telephone:

PART B: INFORMATION OF ATTORNEY ABOUT WHOM YOU ARE COMPLAINING:

Attorney’s Full Name: AR Bar No. (If known):

Address: City: State: Zip:

Does (did) this attorney represent you? YES ☐ NO ☐ If yes, when (month/year) was he/she hired?

What did you hire the attorney to do for you?

What was the fee arrangement? Please include copies of all checks and/or receipts. (Do not send original documents)

Did the attorney or someone on his behalf contact you to see if he or she could represent you? YES ☐ NO ☐
If you answered “yes” to the last question please answer the following three questions:

A. Did you request the attorney to contact you? YES ☐ NO ☐

B. How was the contact made? PHONE ☐ / IN PERSON ☐ / MAIL ☐ / OTHER ☐

C. Contact was made by: THE ATTORNEY ☐ / OTHER ☐ Name:

Did you sign a Contract of Employment or Fee Agreement? YES ☐ NO ☐

If yes, include copies with your grievance.
(Rev. 1.3, 07/28/2017)
Page 2 of 3
PART C: INFORMATION ABOUT YOUR LAWSUIT, COURT CASE

Give court, case number, and party names of any lawsuit (i.e. Doe v. Poe, Pope County Circuit, C-04-017) Please
include copies of any orders and any pleadings that you have on this case.

COURT NAME:

CASE NUMBER:

PARTY NAMES OF ANY LAWSUIT:

PART D: INFORMATION ABOUT YOUR GRIEVANCE

State in detail and in chronological order the circumstances involved. Include dates or approximate dates. Attach additional
sheets of paper if you do not have room below to fully explain your grievance. Also, attach photocopies of any documents
you feel are relevant to your grievance. PLEASE DO NOT SEND ORIGINAL DOCUMENTS. WE CANNOT BE
RESPONSIBLE FOR THEIR SAFE KEEPING AND RETURN TO YOU. (This office charges .25 per page to
provide copies of any documents you may later need)

Return completed form to:

Office of Professional Conduct, 2100 Riverfront Drive, Suite 200, Little Rock, AR 72202-1747, OR via facsimile to:
(501) 376-3438.

IF BLANKS ARE LEFT ON THIS FORM OR ALL QUESTIONS ARE NOT ANSWERED THE PROCESSING
OF YOUR GRIEVANCE MAY BE DELAYED.

GRIEVANCES CANNOT BE FILED ON-LINE. YOU MUST MAIL/ FAX IT TO OUR OFFICE.

(Rev. 1.3, 07/28/2017)

Page 3 of 3
 The Florida Bar
651 E. Jefferson Street Tallahassee, Florida 32399-2300
Toll Free 1-866-352-0707 (ACAP)

IMPORTANT INSTRUCTIONS YOU MUST READ PRIOR TO FILLING OUT THE

INQUIRY/COMPLAINT FORM

Please read all instructions carefully before completing the inquiry/complaint form. If the form is not properly
completed it may be returned for correction. You may submit up to a total of 25 pages including the
inquiry/complaint form and exhibits. You may indicate that additional evidence or exhibits are available upon
request. If you have not already done so, you may contact the Attorney/Consumer Assistance Program (ACAP) at
the above toll free number, to see if they can help resolve the matter about which you wish to complain. Please
legibly print or type in black ink only.

PLEASE NOTE: The Florida Bar cannot intervene on your behalf in a civil or criminal case, nor can we give you
legal advice. We do not have jurisdiction to consider complaints against judges and many elected officials. Our
lawyer regulation department considers whether an attorney has violated our rules of conduct and determines
whether, under the totality of the circumstances, The Florida Bar will seek discipline against the attorney. If your
inquiry/complaint is closed, you will receive a written explanation of the reasons for the closure.

PART ONE – Complainant Information. You must give your name, address, email address and phone number.. If
you have already contacted ACAP, please indicate your ACAP reference number in the space provided. If your
inquiry/complaint pertains to a matter currently in litigation, please indicate that in the space provided.

PART TWO – Attorney Information. You must give the name, Bar Number, address, email and phone number of
the subject attorney. The Bar Number and address of the attorney are particularly important as many lawyers have
the same or similar names. You may find the attorney’s Bar Number and contact information by going to
www.floridabar.org and searching under Find A Lawyer. List only one attorney per form (you may copy this
form if you need additional copies). The Florida Bar processes inquiry/complaint forms only against
individual attorneys, not against law firms or offices.

PART THREE – Facts/Allegations. Describe each thing about which you are complaining. Recite all of the details,
in chronological order, supplying dates where possible. Please be aware that simply alleging conclusions without
setting out facts that support those conclusions will result in the need for the Bar to ask you for additional
information and may delay a disposition of your complaint. Please number any additional pages you attach. If you
have letters, documents or other evidence, you should attach photocopies (DO NOT SEND ORIGINAL
DOCUMENTS). It is helpful if you mark your attachments as exhibits (A, B, C, etc.), and refer to them in your
description of your complaint. Please do not bind, staple, tab or index your documents. You may underline but
DO NOT HIGHLIGHT documents under any circumstances. Highlighting will obscure the underlying text
when scanned into our computers. Please do not attach media such as audio tapes, thumb/flash drives, CDs,
oversized documents, or photographs. We cannot process any media that cannot be scanned into the electronic
record. It is not necessary to include a copy of these instructions.

PART FOUR – Witnesses. Your inquiry/complaint will be considered even if there are no witnesses. If you have
witnesses, attach an additional sheet with the name, address and telephone number for each witness, and include a
brief description of the facts about which that witness would testify. If you do not attach a list of witnesses, we will
presume that you have no witnesses, other than the attorney and yourself.

PART FIVE – Signature. You must sign the form and certify under penalty of perjury that your allegations are true.
Unsworn complaints are not considered. Submit the original inquiry/complaint form to our office via U.S. Mail.
Photocopies of your signature are not accepted.

RETURN TO:
The Florida Bar, Attn.: ACAP

651 East Jefferson Street Tallahassee, Florida 32399-2300

 IMPORTANT NOTICE FOR COMPLAINANTS AND RESPONDENT-ATTORNEYS

MAILING INSTRUCTIONS

Materials Received That Do Not Comply With These Instructions May Be Returned Or

Not Otherwise Incorporated Into The File

The Florida Bar converts its disciplinary files to electronic media. All submissions are scanned
into an electronic record and hard copies are discarded. To help ensure the timely processing of
inquiries/complaints, responses and rebuttals, please review the following instructions prior to providing
your submission.

1. Please limit your submission to no more than 25 pages including exhibits. If you have
additional documents or material available, please make reference to those documents and/or materials in
your written submission as available upon request. Should The Florida Bar need to obtain copies of any
such documents and/or materials, a subsequent request will be sent to you.

2. Please do not bind, staple, tab or index your documents. You may underline but do not highlight
documents under any circumstances. Please do not submit materials in color. When documents are
scanned in our disciplinary files, highlighting and color will obscure the underlying text.

3. Please do not attach media such as audio tapes, thumb/flash drives, CDs, or photographs. We
cannot process any media which cannot be scanned into the electronic record.

4. Please do not submit your original documents. All documents will be discarded after
scanning and we will not be able to return any originals submitted to our office. The only
original documents that should be provided to our office are the inquiry/complaint form, response and
certificate of disclosure.

5. Whether you are a complainant or a respondent-attorney, please do not submit confidential or

privileged information. Documents submitted to our office become public record. (Respondent-
attorneys may wish to consult Rule 4-1.6 (e) of the Rules Regulating The Florida Bar.)
Confidential/privileged information should be redacted. Such information includes, but is not limited to,
bank account numbers, social security numbers, credit card account numbers, medical records,
dependency matters, termination of parental rights, guardian ad litem records, child abuse records,
adoption records, documents containing names of minor children, original birth and death certificates,
biometric data such as fingerprints, Baker Act records, grand jury records, and juvenile delinquency
records. If information of this nature is important to your submission, please describe the nature of the
information and indicate that it is available upon request. Bar counsel will contact you to make
appropriate arrangements for the protection of any such information (to the extent permitted by law) as
part of the investigation of the complaint.

6. Please provide your submission only one time. Do not submit duplicates via email, facsimile
transmission or by any other means. Do not include these instructions. Respondent-attorneys do
not need to include a copy of the complaint.

Please be aware that materials received that do not meet these instructions may be returned or not
otherwise incorporated into the file. Thank you for your consideration in this respect.
 The Florida Bar

Inquiry/Complaint Form

PART ONE (See Page 1, PART ONE – Complainant Information.):

Your Name: _________________________________________________________________________

Organization: ________________________________________________________________________
Address: ____________________________________________________________________________
City, State, Zip Code: __________________________________________________________________
Telephone: __________________________________________________________________________
E-mail: _____________________________________________________________________________
ACAP Reference No.: _________________________________________________________________
Does this complaint pertain to a matter currently in litigation? Yes ______ No ______

PART TWO (See Page 1, PART TWO – Attorney Information.):

Attorney’s Name: __________________________________________ Florida Bar No.: ____________

Address: ____________________________________________________________________________
City, State, Zip Code: __________________________________________________________________
Telephone: __________________________________________________________________________

PART THREE (See Page 1, PART THREE – Facts/Allegations.): The specific thing or things I
am complaining about are: (attach additional sheets as necessary)

(Note that this field maxes out at 1800 characters - attach additional sheets as necessary)
PART FOUR (See Page 1, PART FOUR – Witnesses.): The witnesses in support of my
allegations are: [see attached sheet].

PART FIVE (See Page 1, PART FIVE – Signature.): Under penalties of perjury, I declare that
the foregoing facts are true, correct and complete.

_________________________________________________
Print Name

_________________________________________________
Signature

_________________________________________________
Date
 Office of the General Counsel
104 Marietta Street, N.W. • Suite 100 • Atlanta, Georgia 30303
(404) 527-8720 • (800) 334-6865

IMPORTANT INFORMATION AND INSTRUCTIONS

PLEASE READ BEFORE SENDING A GRIEVANCE

Purpose of Grievance: All lawyers must comply with ethics rules. These rules describe a lawyer’s
obligation to clients, the courts and the general public in professional dealings. The purpose of this
process is to protect the public by disciplining lawyers who violate the ethics rules. Our office cannot
consider complaints against judges acting in a judicial capacity.

Procedure: Our office begins an investigation when a grievance form is received. If it appears that
there might be a violation, then a copy of the grievance is sent to the lawyer for a response. Once
the lawyer responds to your grievance, you will have a chance to review the response and rebut what
the attorney said. Do not expect an immediate response from us after we receive your rebuttal. You
will receive a letter from our office when we complete our investigation. If the lawyer's conduct
appears to violate the ethics rules, we send the grievance file to a member of the State Disciplinary
Board. The Board member will formally investigate the matter and report to the full Board for a
decision. If no violations were discovered, then your complaint is closed and you will receive a
written explanation of the reasons why.

Please Note: Please understand that the Office of the General Counsel cannot represent you, give
you any legal advice, change the outcome of a court decision, or recover money for you. There
may be times when you feel that the attorney did not represent you in the best possible way and this
resulted in an unfavorable outcome. The State Bar of Georgia cannot discipline an attorney for
faulty legal advice (malpractice), an unsuccessful trial strategy or ineffective assistance of
counsel. Therefore, if you think that the lawyer did not represent you correctly or adequately, you
should consult with another attorney about your rights.

If you feel that your grievance may be the result of poor communication or a misunderstanding
between you and the attorney, you should have an open talk with the attorney before you file a
grievance. If you are having difficulty reaching your attorney, you may wish to call our Consumer
Assistance Program at (404) 527-8759. If your problem with the lawyer is a fee dispute, you may
call the Fee Arbitration Division of the State Bar at (404) 527-8750.

If you wish to file a grievance, please complete the form, sign and date it, make a copy for yourself
and return the original with your original signature to this office. If the form is not properly
completed, it may be returned for correction. Be aware that alleging conclusions without
explaining facts that support the conclusions will result in either a request for additional information
or a dismissal of the grievance.

PLEASE READ THE INSTRUCTIONS ON THE BACK.

Revised 9.17.18
INSTRUCTIONS:

The State Bar of Georgia is in the process of converting its disciplinary files to electronic
media. All submissions will be scanned into an electronic record.

The following instructions will allow our office to process your documents in an expedient manner.

• Submission(s) cannot exceed 25 pages. If additional documents

are needed, our office will contact you.

• We DO NOT accept fax copies of the grievance.

• DO NOT send CDs, DVDs or flash drives unless requested.

• DO NOT send medical records or documents with Social

Security numbers.

• DO NOT bind (staple or tape) any pages of the grievance.

• DO NOT write on the back of pages or use a highlighter.

• Use ONLY standard 8 1/2" by 11" paper and do not add post-it
notes or tabs to exhibits or supporting documentation.

• Do not add irregular sized pages or photographs.

• Notify us of any change in your address or telephone

number.

• Make a copy of your complete grievance for your records before

submission to the Office of the General Counsel.

• Only list one attorney per grievance form. If additional

forms are needed, please contact the Office of the General
Counsel.

DO NOT SEND ORIGINAL DOCUMENTS.

WE CANNOT BE RESPONSIBLE FOR THEIR SAFE-
KEEPING
OR RETURN THEM TO YOU.
Revised 9.17.18
 STATE BAR OF GEORGIA
GRIEVANCE
CONFIDENTIAL
PLEASE TYPE OR PRINT LEGIBLY IN BLACK INK ONLY
DO NOT ALTER THIS FORM

YOUR NAME: (Mr./Mrs./Ms.) ________________________________________________________________________________

MAILING ADDRESS: ______________________________________________________________________________________

Street or P.O. Box City State Zip

YOUR PHONE NUMBERS: (W) _________________________________ (H) _______________________________________

NAME OF THE ATTORNEY: _______________________________________________________________________________

Fill out a separate form for each attorney. Do not list law firms.

ADDRESS OF THE ATTORNEY: ____________________________________________________________________________

DATE OF FIRST CONTACT WITH ATTORNEY: ________________ DATE OF LAST CONTACT WITH ATTORNEY: ________________

DOES THIS ATTORNEY CURRENTLY REPRESENT YOU? YES  NO  WAS THIS YOUR ATTORNEY? YES  NO 

IS YOUR CASE: CRIMINAL  CIVIL  CASE # ____________________________________________________________________

COUNTY: ____________________________________ OR FEDERAL DISTRCIT: NORTHERN  MIDDLE  SOUTHERN 

CLEARLY DESCRIBE YOUR COMPLAINT AND ATTACH SUPPORTING DOCUMENTS:

__________________________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________________________

If more space is needed, please attach other pages. Please do not write on the back.

Return to: State Bar of Georgia “I affirm that I have read and understand the information and instructions.
Office of the General Counsel The information I have provided here is true to the best of my knowledge.”
104 Marietta St. NW, Suite 100 SIGNATURE: _________________________________________________
Atlanta, GA 30303 DATE: _______________________________________________________

OPTIONAL: PLEASE PROVIDE THE NAME AND PHONE NUMBER OF SOMEONE WE CAN CONTACT IF WE HAVE
DIFFICUTLTY CONTACTING YOU.

NAME OF CONTACT PERSON: __________________________________________________________________________________________

PHONE NUMBERS OF CONTACT PERSON: (W) __________________________ (H) ________________________________

Revised 05.05.16
 MAIL COMPLAINT BACK TO: (Revised 05/17)

KENTUCKY BAR ASSOCIATION

OFFICE OF BAR COUNSEL
514 WEST MAIN STREET
FRANKFORT KY 40601-1812

COMPLAINT FORM
(Please type or print in black ink)

NAME AND ADDRESS OF COMPLAINANT (Please print) DATE: __________________

__________________________________________________ HOME #: ________________________________________

__________________________________________________ CELL #: _________________________________________

__________________________________________________ EMAIL: __________________________________________

NAME & ADDRESS OF ATTORNEY AGAINST WHOM COMPLAINT IS MADE

__________________________________________________

__________________________________________________

__________________________________________________ PHONE #: ________________________________________

IF COMPLAINT INVOLVES COURT CASE, PROVIDE THE FOLLOWING:

CASE NO. _____________________ PARTY NAMES: _______________________________________________

COURT: _______________________ COUNTY: ____________________ (if state case) ACTIVE CASE? Yes / No

COMPLAINT INSTRUCTIONS
(Please read carefully)

1. Supreme Court Rule 3.150 provides this matter is confidential until the Inquiry Commission or its Chair has acted.
2. The KBA investigates Complaints on behalf of the Kentucky Supreme Court and does not represent the Complainant
or the Attorney (Respondent).
3. The attorney listed above will receive a copy of this complaint and be asked to respond to the allegations.
4. Complaints against law firms are not accepted. For complaints involving more than one attorney, use a SEPARATE
form for each attorney and include details and exhibits specific to that attorney only. Do not combine details or exhibits
into one document and attach to multiple complaints. If comments about a complaint filed against another attorney other
than the one on the listed on the form are included in the details, it will be returned.
5. Every complaint must have an original notarized signature. Copied signatures will not be accepted.
6. Attach COPIES of documentation only, i.e., receipts, contracts, etc. Do not send originals.
7. State specifically what the attorney did or failed to do which constitutes unethical conduct. If drugs, alcohol or mental
disability are believed to have affected the lawyer’s representation, please state facts in support of that belief.
8. Provide the names, addresses, and phone numbers of any witnesses.
9. Do not bind the complaint.
10. If money was lost due to dishonesty, fraud, or other unethical conduct within the attorney/client relationship, contact
the Office of Bar Counsel to request a Client’s Security Fund claim form. Claims must be filed no later than two years
after you knew or should have known of the attorney’s dishonest conduct. Forms are also available on our website
www.kybar.org.
 DETAILS OF COMPLAINT
More pages may be added if necessary.
________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
I swear the foregoing statements are true and correct to the best of my knowledge and belief and I will voluntarily appear
and testify to the facts in the complaint if called upon to do so by the Kentucky Bar Association.

_______________________________________
SIGNATURE OF COMPLAINANT

NOTARY’S CERTIFICATE

COMMONWEALTH/STATE OF: ______________________________)

COUNTY OF: ____________________________)

The above complainant, ______________________________, (print complainant’s name) appeared before me in person,
and the complaint being subscribed and sworn to before me, a Notary Public, in and for the State and County this the
_______ day of ____________________, 20____.

_____________________________________
NOTARY PUBLIC
My Commission expires: _________________
 TT
OR
NE Y D
IS OFFICE OF THE DISCIPLINARY COUNSEL
__________________________________________________

CI
A

PL
U I S IA N A

I N AR Y B
LOUISIANA ATTORNEY DISCIPLINARY BOARD
LO

O
AR
E D
TH

4000 S. Sherwood Forest Blvd., Suite 607 • Baton Rouge, Louisiana 70816 • (225) 293-3900 • 1-800-326-8022 • FAX (225) 293-3300

ETHICAL CONDUCT COMPLAINT

PART A: INFORMATION ABOUT YOU - PLEASE KEEP CURRENT

1. FULL NAME: ________________________________________________________________________________________

2. HOME ADDRESS: ___________________________________________________________________________________

CITY: ____________________________________________ STATE _____________________ ZIP __________________

TELEPHONE: area code (________) __________________________
3. EMPLOYER: ________________________________________________________________________________________

WORK ADDRESS: __________________________________________________________________________________

CITY: ____________________________________________ STATE _____________________ ZIP __________________
TELEPHONE: area code (________) __________________________

4. NAME OF PERSON WHO CAN ALWAYS REACH YOU: ____________________________________________________

ADDRESS & TELEPHONE: ___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________________________

PART B: INFORMATION ABOUT ATTORNEY

1. NAME OF ATTORNEY: _______________________________________________________________________________

2. ADDRESS: _________________________________________________________________________________________
CITY: ____________________________________________ STATE _____________________ ZIP __________________
TELEPHONE: area code (________) __________________________

3. WHEN DID YOU HIRE THIS ATTORNEY? ________________________________________________________________

4. WHAT DID YOU HIRE THIS ATTORNEY TO DO FOR YOU? _________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________________________________

5. WHAT WAS YOUR FEE ARRANGEMENT WITH THE ATTORNEY? __________________________________________

___________________________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________________________

The Office of the Disciplinary Counsel and The Disciplinary Board are established by the Supreme Court of Louisiana to administer the lawyer discipline and
disability system by investigating, prosecuting and conducting fact finding into complaints against attorneys in Louisiana.
LOUISIANA ATTORNEY DISCIPLINARY BOARD

PART C: EXPLANATION OF YOUR COMPLAINT

State in detail why you think this attorney has done something improper or has failed to do something
which this attorney should have done. Include the names and addresses of all persons who know some-
thing about your grievance. Attach copies of court papers, cancelled checks or receipts showing pay-
ments of attorney's fee, and other documents relevant to your grievance. Attach additional 8 1/2" x 11"
sheets of paper if you need more space for your explanation.

2
LOUISIANA ATTORNEY DISCIPLINARY BOARD

LIST ALL DOCUMENTS ATTACHED: ___________________________________________________________________________

________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

DATE OF SIGNING: __________________________________

___________________________________________________________
COMPLAINANT

___________________________________________________________
COMPLAINANT

RETURN THIS FORM TO: Office of the Disciplinary Counsel

4000 S. Sherwood Forest Blvd., Suite 607
Baton Rouge, Louisiana 70816

3
 OFFICE OF CHIEF DISCIPLINARY COUNSEL

COMPLAINT FORM
Type or Complete in Black Ink

1. Your full name and address:

________________________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________________________

2. Telephone number(s): Home:__________________ Cell:____________________ Work:______________________

3. The name, address, telephone number of the attorney being complained about:
________________________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________________________

NOTE: If you are complaining about more than one attorney, prepare a separate complaint form and factual
statement for each attorney.

4. Have you or a member of your family complained about this attorney previously? Yes ______ No _____. If so, please
state to whom the previous complaint was made, the approximate date and disposition.
______________________________________________________________________________________________

5. Did you employ the attorney? Answer yes or no and if “yes,” give the approximate date you employed him/her and
the amount, if any, paid to him/her._________________________________________________________________

6. If your answer to question 5 is “no,” what is your connection with the attorney? Explain briefly.
________________________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________________________

7. Type or write out on a separate piece of paper, and send with this form a detailed, factual statement of what the
attorney did or did not do that you are complaining about. Please state the facts as you understand them. Do not
include opinions or arguments. If you employed the attorney, state what you employed him/her to do. Sign and
date your statement. Further information may be requested.

Attach copies of pertinent documents. Please be selective with regard to the documents you include. Please be
advised we cannot return documents submitted to this office. You should retain a copy of all materials you
submit. See reverse side of form for more instructions.

8. If your complaint involves a legal proceeding, answer the following, if known:

a. Name of court (Example: Circuit Court or Municipal Court – in what county)
________________________________________________________________________________________
b. Case Name ( Example: Smith vs. Jones)
________________________________________________________________________________________
c. Case # and date case was filed _______________________________________________________________
d. If you are not a party to this case, what is your connection with it? Explain briefly.
________________________________________________________________________________________

Signature ________________________________________________ Date ______________________________

MAIL TO: OCDC, 3327 AMERICAN AVENUE, JEFFERSON CITY, MO 65109-1079

TELEPHONE 573-635-7400 FAX NUMBER 573-635-2240

Instructions for filing:

Be sure to give the full and complete name of the attorney about whom you are complaining. Also give his/her
address and telephone number. If you wish to complain about more than one attorney, use a separate
complaint form for each attorney. If any of the blank spaces do not apply to your case, write in this particular
space N/A (Not Applicable). Be sure to date and sign the complaint form.

On a separate sheet of paper, tell us what your complaint is against the attorney. We also need to know the
background of your case: what type of case it is (i.e. divorce, criminal, etc.), when it first started, how you chose
the attorney, when you first met with the attorney, what type of agreement you had with the attorney, if the
agreement was verbal or in writing, etc., the last date you were in contact with the attorney and what occurred
at that time, then tell us in your own words what has happened so far in the case.

Enclosure of Documents:

The following are a list of items which will be useful to our office in evaluating your complaint. If you have any of
these items in your possession, please include copies of them with your complaint. DO NOT SEND ORIGINAL
DOCUMENTS, only copies, as we are not able to return your documents to you.

 A copy of any fee agreement which you might have in writing from the attorney. If there was no
written agreement, please explain what your understanding was as to how and when the attorney
was to be paid for fees, costs, etc.
 Copies of the front and back sides of all cancelled checks and/or copies of receipts you have showing
payments made by you to the attorney.
 Copies of any pertinent court documents in your possession that relate specifically to the issues you
raise in your complaint.
 If you have hired a new attorney, please provide his or her name, address and telephone number.
This form contains fillable fields and options, and it is best viewed in Adobe Acrobat. If this form automatically 
opened in your browser and not in Acrobat, you can still complete the form. However, we do recommend 
following these steps to save the PDF to your computer and open the file in Acrobat. 

I have clicked the PDF link and it opened directly within my browser. 
Some browsers have a PDF viewer plugin which will open the PDF links directly within the browser. You will 
want to save this PDF to your computer. Here is how to save/download the PDF from within the browser’s PDF 
viewer plugin: 

Save in Chrome:  
1) Locate the PDF options bar. (See image below for an example. This is displayed at the top of the page, 
but it will hide as your mouse moves down the page. To reveal the PDF options bar when hidden, bring 
your mouse to the top of the page). 
2) Locate the Download icon on the PDF options bar. (See the red box in the image below.) 
 

 
 
3) Click download. Take note of the location to which  you saved the file. 

The file is now saved. Depending on the computer settings, the file may automatically open. If not, open 
Acrobat, locate where you saved the file, and open. 

Save in Firefox:  
1) Locate the PDF options bar at the top of the page. See image below for an example. 
2) Locate the Download icon on the PDF options bar. 
 
  
 
3) Click the Download button. Take note of the location to which  you saved the file. 

The file is now saved. Depending on the computer settings, the file may automatically open. If not, open 
Acrobat, locate where you saved the file, and open. 

Save in Safari: 
1) Locate the PDF options bar at the top of the page. See image below for an example. 
2) Locate the Save icon on the PDF options bar. 
 

 
 
3) Click the Save button. Take note of the location to which  you saved the file. 

The file is now saved. Depending on the computer settings, the file may automatically open. If not, open 
Acrobat, locate where you saved the file, and open. 

Save in Internet Explorer: 
1) Locate the PDF options bar at the top of the page. See image below for an example. 
2) Locate the Save icon on the PDF options bar. 
 

 
 
3) Click the Save button. Take note of the location to which  you saved the file. 

The file is now saved. Depending on the computer settings, the file may automatically open. If not, open 
Acrobat, locate where you saved the file, and open. 
 Submit via Email

TO: The Grievance Committee

The North Carolina State Bar
PO Box 25908
Raleigh, NC 27611
Telephone: (919) 828‐4620

NC State Bar Complaint Form (rev’d May 12, 2016)

I am filing a complaint against (Name of Lawyer) _____________________________________________ 
(Lawyer’s Address) __________________________________(City/County)________________________, 
State_______________________ (Zip) _________ 
 

I am reporting alleged misconduct of the above‐named lawyer. I agree to provide to the State Bar all pertinent 
information and records in my possession concerning the alleged misconduct. If a hearing or inquiry is ordered 
concerning  the  alleged  misconduct  of  the  lawyer,  I  will  testify  if  requested.  I  understand  that  the  immunity 
granted  by  N.C.  General  Statute  84‐28.2  applies  only  to  those  statements  made  to  the  State  Bar  without 
malice. 
   

 I understand that the North Carolina State Bar may reveal this information to the accused lawyer and 
to others pursuant to the Rules of the State Bar. Initial _______ 
 

 I understand that the State Bar cannot give me legal advice, cannot represent me or intervene on my 
behalf in a court proceeding, cannot remove a lawyer from a case, cannot determine whether a lawyer 
committed malpractice or is indebted to me, and cannot change court orders. I understand that if I 
believe I have suffered damages because of an act or omission of a lawyer, I should not wait for the 
State Bar's disposition of a complaint before pursuing any legal claim or seeking legal advice.         
Initial _______ 
 

 My electronic or physical signature below confirms that the information I am providing on this form is, 
to the best of my knowledge, accurate. Initial _______ 
 
Signature: ________________________________        Date:   _______________________ 
 
MY NAME AND ADDRESS
Mr., Mrs., or Ms. _________________________________ 
Address: _________________________________________City: ____________________ State: _____  
Zip: ________ Telephone: (   ___   ) _______________Alternate Telephone:  (   ___   ) _______________ 
Email: __________________________________________________ 

DESCRIPTION OF THE COMPLAINT

Either in the space on the next page, or on a single attached page, tell us what the complaint is about. Include 
all the facts that you want the State Bar to consider, including names, dates and places.  
 
Please attach any electronic documents that support the complaint to the email that will be generated
when you click the “Submit via Email” button at the top of this page.

   I will attach electronic documents that support the complaint to the email generated when I click the 
“Submit via Email” button at the top of this page. 

    I was unable to submit supporting documents electronically. The supporting documents will be sent by 
mail with a copy of this completed complaint form. 

 
 
 GENERAL INFORMATION ABOUT THE LAWYER COMPLAINT PROCESS
The primary purpose of the lawyer discipline system is to protect the public. The
Oklahoma Supreme Court gives the Oklahoma Bar Association, Office of the General
Counsel, the authority to investigate complaints against lawyers. Funding for lawyer
discipline comes from annual dues paid by all state bar members, not by tax dollars.

The Office of the General Counsel investigates allegations of unethical conduct against
lawyers practicing in Oklahoma. If you believe your attorney has acted improperly, you
may file a complaint with the Office of the General Counsel. The Office of the General
Counsel cannot investigate complaints of malpractice, decide legal questions,
give legal advice or appoint you a lawyer.

As a client, you have a right to expect competent representation from your attorney. If
you are dissatisfied, you may fire the attorney. However, not every reason to terminate
your attorney's services is grounds for disciplining the attorney. Although the conduct of
an attorney may seem inappropriate, it may not necessarily constitute a violation of the
Oklahoma Rules of Professional Conduct, found in Title 5 of the Oklahoma Statutes.

This Office does not mediate or arbitrate fee disputes. If you think your attorney's
bill is too high, call the attorney and discuss it. Most lawyers maintain detailed records of
time spent and expenses associated with each case and can itemize or explain any
charges you may question. Disputes about legal fees are not usually investigated
by the Office of the General Counsel. Written fee arrangements are always
encouraged.

Here are some examples of complaints the Office of the General Counsel has the
authority to investigate:

▪ a lawyer holding money on your behalf will not return the money or provide you with
a written accounting of how it was spent
▪ a lawyer consistently does not respond to questions about your case, inform you
about court dates, or appear in court
▪ a lawyer does not tell the truth or asks you or another person to lie as part of the
case
▪ a lawyer fails to follow through with what was promised or does not perform the
action in a timely manner

In your grievance, you will need to describe in full detail the nature of your complaint
against the attorney. Be sure to include important dates, what you employed the lawyer
to do, and what the attorney did or did not do. Include copies (not originals) of any
documents you may have, such as a fee agreement, court papers, letters or notes you
think will help the Office of the General Counsel understand your complaint.
 FILING A GRIEVANCE WITH
THE OKLAHOMA BAR ASSOCIATION

1. By law, any grievance you want to make against an attorney must be in writing
and must be signed. The Oklahoma Supreme Court has delegated to the
Oklahoma Bar Association the responsibility to investigate grievances filed
against attorneys when necessary.

2. From the written information and documents you submit, the Office of the
General Counsel may decide:
A. To open an investigation,
B. To ask you to provide more information,
C. To notify you that our office can take no action.

3. If an investigation is opened, you will be notified in writing and when necessary

be contacted by an investigator or attorney.

4. Our investigation is confidential. Our investigation is limited to the ethical and

professional conduct of the lawyer. We cannot provide legal advice, nor can we
represent you in any pending litigation. Therefore, you must protect your own
legal interests.

5. This form should not be used for complaints against judges. Complaints against
judges are handled by the Council on Judicial Complaints. To obtain the required
form, contact the Council on Judicial Complaints at 1901 N. Lincoln Blvd.,
Oklahoma City, OK 73105 or at (405) 522-4800 or (877) 873-7468.

6. Complete the grievance form in its entirety. All of the requested information is
important to ensure a complete and thorough investigation of the grievance.
 GRIEVANCE FORM PAGE ONE

RETURN FORM TO: Office of the General Counsel

Oklahoma Bar Association
P.O. Box 53036
Oklahoma City, OK 73152

Complainant Information:
Prefix:  Mr.  Mrs.  Ms.
First Name: _________________________
Middle Name: _______________________
Last Name: _________________________
Address: ___________________________
City: _______________________________
State: _____ Zip code: _________
Date of birth: ____________________
Email: __________________________
Telephone:
Home: ____________________
Business: __________________
Mobile: ____________________

Attorney against whom you wish to file a grievance: (NO LAW FIRMS)

Prefix:  Mr.  Mrs.  Ms.

First Name: _________________________
Middle Name: _______________________ Telephone:
Last Name: _________________________ Business: __________________
Address: ___________________________ Home: __________________
City: __________________________ Mobile: __________________
State: ______ Zip code: __________ Email: __________________

1. Did you employ the attorney? Yes _____ No _____

a. Approximate date you employed the attorney: _______________________
b. Was there a written agreement for services? Yes _________ No ________
(If yes, attach copy)
c. What, if any, was the amount paid to the attorney? ___________________
d. Date Paid: ___________ (attach proof of payment)

* * * DO NOT WRITE ON BACK OF FORM * * *

* * * DO NOT SEND ORIGINAL DOCUMENTS, PROVIDE COPIES

AS ORIGINALS CANNOT BE RETURNED * * *
 GRIEVANCE FORM PAGE TWO

2. If you did not employ the attorney, what is your connection to him/her?
________________________________________________________________

________________________________________________________________

3. Please furnish the following information, if available:

a. Name of Court/County: ____________________
b. Case Number: ___________________________
c. Title of Suit: __________________________________ vs. ______________
____________________________________________________
d. Approximate Date case was filed: _____________________________

4. If you are or have been represented by any other attorney with regard to this same
matter, state the name and address of the other attorney:

Name: ________________________
Address: ______________________
City: __________________________
State: _______ Zip code: _________

5. If you have made a grievance about this same matter to any other Official or
Agency, state its (their) name(s), and the approximate date you reported it:
___________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________

6. In the event a disciplinary hearing is held, would you be willing to appear and testify
as a witness? Yes _____ No ______

* * * DO NOT WRITE ON BACK OF FORM * * *

* * * DO NOT SEND ORIGINAL EXHIBITS, PROVIDE COPIES

AS ORIGINALS CANNOT BE RETURNED * * *
 GRIEVANCE FORM PAGE THREE

7. Names and addresses of witnesses to this grievance:

A. ___________________ B. ___________________ C. ___________________

Name Name
___________________ ___________________
Address Address
___________________ ___________________
City City
___________________ ___________________
State Zip State Zip
______________________ ______________________
Telephone Number(s) Telephone Number(s)
______________________ ______________________
Email Address Email Address
Name
___________________
Address
___________________
City
___________________
State Zip
_______________________
Telephone Number(s)
_______________________
Email Address

8. Nature of grievance against the attorney explained in full detail. (Use a separate
piece of paper if necessary). If you employed the attorney, state what you
employed him/her to do. Include what the attorney did or did not do. Further
information may be requested.
____________________________________________________________________

____________________________________________________________________

____________________________________________________________________

____________________________________________________________________

____________________________________________________________________

____________________________________________________________________

____________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________

____________________________________________________________________

____________________________________________________________________

____________________________________________________________________

____________________________________________________________________

____________________________________________________________________
I hereby certify that I have read the foregoing matters and that they are true
and correct to the best of my knowledge.
____________________________ _____________________
Your Signature Date

This grievance form must be signed before it can be considered.

It is imperative that you notify this office of an address change.
If you are not available as a witness, your grievance may be dismissed.
 Complaint Form
VIRGINIA STATE BAR

Mail to:
VIRGINIA STATE BAR
INTAKE OFFICE
1111 East Main Street, Suite 700
Richmond, Virginia 23219-0026
Telephone: (804) 775-0570
NOTE: Send in this form if you have concerns about a lawyer’s conduct. Your complaint might result in
discipline to the lawyer. If you are seeking other remedies against the lawyer, you may need to seek legal advice
from a lawyer in private practice. Also, the bar may require your further involvement in an investigation by asking
you to be interviewed by a bar investigator and/or to participate at a hearing.
Please DO NOT send original documents to the Virginia State Bar. Preserve all original documents
until your complaint has been resolved. In addition, please redact personally identifying information such as
Social Security numbers, date of birth, driver’s license numbers, etc. All documents will be destroyed in keeping
with the bar’s records and destruction policies.

_ Mr. _ Mrs. _ Ms.

YOUR
NAME:
first initial last

Daytime Telephone No.:

YOUR
street q home ( )
ADDRESS:
work (
q )
Other Telephone No. and times you
can be reached:
city state zip code
q ( )
email q ( )

LAWYER’S
first initial last
NAME:

LAWYER’S Lawyer’s Telephone No.:

ADDRESS: lawyer’s law firm, if known ( )

street address or P.O. Box

city state zip code

LAWYER’S ACTIONS COMPLAINED OF:

(Continue on the back or a separate page if you need more space. Also, attach copies of any documents that help explain
your complaint.)
YOUR
SIGNATURE: DATE:

FORM MUST BE SIGNED AND DATED

Turn this form over for more information we need from you to analyze your complaint. *
 Virginia State Bar Complaint Form . . . Page 2

LAWYER’S ACTIONS COMPLAINED OF (continued)

List the names, addresses, and phone numbers of persons who might be able to give additional information
about your complaint:

PLEASE ANSWER THE FOLLOWING QUESTIONS:

1. Have you or a member of your family contacted us about this lawyer before? q yes q no
If yes, please state when you made the complaint and the outcome of that complaint.

2. Have you filed a complaint or legal action about this matter anywhere else? q yes q no
If yes, state where and the outcome.

3. Describe your relationship to the lawyer who is the subject of your complaint by choosing from the following:
q I am the lawyer’s client
q I am the lawyer’s former client
q I am a relative or friend of the lawyer’s client
q I am an opposing party
q I am an opposing lawyer
q Other
If Other, please explain:

4. What is the nature of your legal case? When was the lawyer employed or appointed to represent you? How much money, if any, was the
lawyer paid to represent you?

5. Is your concern only that you think the lawyer charged you too much? q yes q no
If yes, you should contact the bar at (804) 775-9423 for information on fee dispute resolution.

6. Have you read the brochure describing the bar’s attorney disciplinary process? q yes q no