The Discipline System
In Washington, the Supreme Court has exclusive responsibility for the lawyer discipline and disability system. Under the Rules for Enforcement of Lawyer Conduct, the Supreme Court delegates some of its authority to the Washington State Bar Association through the Disciplinary Board, hearing officers, and the Office of Disciplinary Counsel. Ethics rules adopted by the Supreme Court are the Rules of Professional Conduct.
Structure of the Washington Lawyer Discipline System
- Has exclusive authority over the entire system
- Conducts appellate review
- Orders all suspensions and disbarments, interim suspensions, and reciprocal discipline
- Reviews disciplinary recommendations and dismissals
- Reviews hearing records and stipulations
- Conduct public disciplinary hearings and other proceedings
Office of Disciplinary Counsel
- Receives, reviews, and may investigate grievances
- Recommends disciplinary action or dismissal
- Presents cases at hearings