Contrary to common belief, it is the Supreme Court of Missouri – not The Missouri Bar – which is in charge of the state’s lawyer discipline system. In order to protect the public, the Supreme Court oversees a mechanism for investigation and, where necessary, discipline of lawyers who fail to meet their professional obligations. Examples of misconduct which may draw disciplinary action are: neglect (failure to communicate, failure to perform agreed upon duties, delay, etc.); trust violations (embezzlement of funds entrusted to a lawyer by or for a client); conflict of interest; and misleading advertising.

Anyone who believes that a lawyer has engaged in unethical conduct may file a complaint with the Office of Chief Disciplinary Counsel in Jefferson City.

Complaints must be in writing. There is a form for filing a complaint at the Office of Chief Disciplinary Counsel’s website at www.mochiefcounsel.org. The telephone number for the Office of Chief Disciplinary Counsel is (573) 635-7400.