Are you facing a complaint from a former client alleging unethical conduct? Undoubtedly, this can be a daunting experience for any legal professional. After all, the ability to practice law is your livelihood.
While this process is a critical mechanism for protecting the public and maintaining the integrity of the legal profession, it can feel awful when your practices and past actions are suddenly in question.
Below are just some of the things to first consider when facing a grievance:
Understand the Complaint
Understanding the complaint filed against you is the initial step in addressing ethical misconduct accusations. Be proactive when examining the specifics to pinpoint the core issues and areas of dispute or misunderstanding. This thorough approach will reveal the potential impact on your practice and professional license.
Many times there is more at issue than is immediately evident. There can also be solutions available that may not be consistent with your gut response at being attacked.
Regardless of the circumstances, the ability to address the intricacies presented by the Attorney Grievance Committee of New York is invaluable for lawyers seeking to resolve complaints about them.
Secure an Attorney
Once you have a firm understanding of the complaint lodged against you, find an ethics lawyer to provide experienced counsel. Facing a complaint before the Attorney Grievance Committee of New York can be a serious undertaking, and it’s important to neutralize your emotions with logical expert advice from a more objective professional.
An experienced ethics attorney can examine your situation and provide a roadmap for responding to the complaint(s). You’ll want to know the complete range of potential consequences and impacts to your reputation and career, and your attorney can focus on de-escalation and mitigation to minimize the harm caused by the complaint.
Complaints about New York lawyers are very serious. It’s imperative that you treat the situation with the seriousness it demands and secure legal representation.
Quickly Respond to the Grievance Committee
Upon notification from the Attorney Grievance Committee of New York that a complaint warrants investigation, attorneys find themselves at a juncture where their response can significantly influence the outcome. It is not merely a procedural step.
You have a professional duty to submit a prompt, thorough and factual answer. Such diligence ensures that concerns do not go without a response. Whether it pertains to neglect, communication lapses, misrepresentation or other allegations, you want to be sure that your response demonstrates a commitment to the ethical practice of law.
Prompt yet reflective responses conveyed with appropriate respect towards all parties lay the foundation of your defense.
Don’t Wait
In conclusion, addressing an investigation by the Attorney Grievance Committee of New York requires attention to detail. Your legal reputation is under fire. Professional legal representation can help you adequately exemplify high ethical standards and professionalism throughout the process.
If a complaint has been lodged against you, take action now. Contact David A. Lewis Law at (212) 951-1819 to schedule a consultation and discuss your case.
