Complaints Against Hawaii Attorneys | Complaint Process & Information
| THE PURPOSE OF LAWYER DISCIPLINE | WHAT TYPE OF CONDUCT VIOLATES THE HRPC? | WHAT TO DO IF YOU BELIEVE YOUR LAWYER HAS ACTED UNETHICALLY? | WHAT YOU CAN EXPECT WHEN A COMPLAINT IS FILED |
| The lawyer discipline system consists of the ODC, a Disciplinary Board appointed by the Hawai`i Supreme Court, and the Court itself. The ODC investigates and prosecutes ethical misconduct claims against attorneys; the Disciplinary Board adjudicates claims and may impose discipline in some instances; the Supreme Court considers the recommendations of the Disciplinary Board in the most serious cases and can suspend and disbar attorneys. [MORE]
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These are some general examples of areas covered by the HRPC: * Lack of Diligence and/or Communication - a lawyer fails to work on a client's case or fails to keep in contact with the client concerning the status of the case or to return calls. [MORE] |
If you believe an attorney has violated the HRPC and acted unethically, you can file a complaint with the ODC. However, before doing so, it is a good idea to consider the following. [MORE] |
It is not necessary that a person be a client to file a complaint against an attorney. Complaints may be filed by any individual who feels that an attorney has acted improperly. Each complaint received by ODC is taken seriously and carefully weighed. Established procedures are followed in the review of every complaint received. You may be asked to answer questions from ODC staff investigating your complaint. You will be notified of the final outcome of your complaint. |