However, if the matter proceeds to a full investigation, you may be asked for your client file. Attorneys must file an answer to a Request for Investigation within 21 days of the date it is mailed. Please note that the time is calculated from the date of mailing, not when it is received. If an Answer to a Request for Investigation is not timely filed, the AGC issues a Final Notice to the lawyer by certified mail. Failure to answer may result in formal disciplinary proceedings.
Contact is encouraged to resolve differences.
Oftentimes, contact even after a grievance is filed helps resolve problems, particularly where the client believes there has been a lack of communication. However, the attorney must still answer the grievance. The attorney may provide the complainant a refund, however, a refund cannot be conditioned on withdrawing the grievance. Refunds are taken into consideration by the Commission, but are not necessarily dispositive. The AGC will consider how much time has passed between the conduct and the filing of the grievance.