By Rule, complaints are kept confidential unless the complaint is serious enough to require the filing of Formal Charges. When a complaint is received, it is reviewed by the Bar Counsel to determine if a violation of the Rules of Professional Conduct is present. Normally you will receive a copy of the attorney's rebuttal. If the investigation establishes that there have been no violations of the Rules or if there is insufficient evidence to prove that a violation has occurred, the complaint will be dismissed and you will be informed of the reasons for dismissal by letter. If it is determined that a violation has occurred, the attorney may receive informal or private discipline or in some cases, formal charges may be filed.
Some violations warrant the filing of formal charges.
The discipline ordered after the filing of formal charges can range from public censure to disbarment. If you feel the decision was incorrect, you may file a written request to have the decision reviewed. Likewise, the attorney can request a review of a decision he believes improper. The Idaho State Bar only has jurisdiction over violations of the Rules of Professional Conduct. We cannot handle matters which involve legal malpractice.