ATTORNEY GRIEVANCES
Attorney Grievances
Facing a grievance can be a daunting experience for any attorney. We provide skilled, strategic defense focused on protecting professional reputations and guiding clients through the complexities of grievance investigations. With a strong foundation in ethical standards and legal protocols, we assist attorneys in responding to complaints and representing them in disciplinary hearings. Each case is handled with thorough preparation and a clear defense strategy to safeguard both reputation and career. Our goal is to help attorneys navigate these challenges effectively, ensuring they can continue their practice with integrity and confidence.
How the Texas Grievance Process Works
1. The Complaint Is Filed
Anyone can file a grievance with the State Bar of Texas. Some complaints are legally insufficient; others move forward.
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2. Screening by the Office of Chief Disciplinary Counsel (CDC)
The CDC reviews the complaint to decide whether it alleges a possible violation of the Texas Disciplinary Rules of Professional Conduct.
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If it doesn’t, the complaint is dismissed.
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If it does, it becomes a formal grievance and deadlines start running immediately.
3. The Response Deadline (Very Short)
Once a grievance becomes formal, the attorney must file a written response, usually within 30 days.
This response is crucial. It sets the narrative, frames the facts, and often determines whether the matter escalates.
4. Investigation
If the CDC believes further inquiry is needed, it opens an investigation. As part of its investigation, the CDC may do any of the following:
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Request records
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Conduct interviews
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Ask for additional written responses
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Review client files
This is where strategy and clarity can prevent a bad situation from becoming worse.
5. Classification: Just Cause or Dismissal
After investigating, the CDC decides whether “just cause” exists to believe a violation occurred.
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No just cause → complaint dismissed.
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Just cause → the case proceeds.
6. Election: District Court or Evidentiary Panel
If just cause is found, the attorney chooses the forum:
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District court (a civil lawsuit with discovery and trial), or
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Evidentiary panel (a disciplinary tribunal made up of lawyers and public members).
This decision is strategic, and can be outcome-determinative.
7. Resolution
Cases may end in:
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Dismissal
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Private reprimand
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Public reprimand
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Suspension (active or probated)
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Disbarment
But many can be resolved before reaching a hearing with the right approach.
Experience You can Rely On
Representation in multiple grievance matters across Texas
We've guided attorneys through the grievance process at some of its most stressful moments by helping them frame the facts, craft clear responses, and resolve issues before they escalate.
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Strategic handling of responses, investigations, and early-stage resolutions
We focus on addressing problems efficiently and effectively, often resolving matters long before a hearing becomes necessary. Our approach is proactive, detail-driven, and geared toward protecting your license and reputation with the least possible disruption.