Pennsylvania

Philadelphia Attorney Ethics & Discipline

Philadelphia is Pennsylvania's largest city and a major legal market, home to federal courts, the Third Circuit Court of Appeals, and a large legal community. Attorney discipline in Pennsylvania is handled by the Disciplinary Board of the Supreme Court of Pennsylvania.

File a Bar Complaint in Philadelphia

Attorney discipline in Philadelphia is handled by the Disciplinary Board of the Supreme Court of Pennsylvania. If you believe an attorney has violated their professional obligations, you have the right to file a formal complaint.

Visit Disciplinary Board of the Supreme Court of Pennsylvania →Pennsylvania Attorney Discipline →

How to File a Bar Complaint Against a Philadelphia Attorney

1
Document everything. Gather all communications with the attorney — emails, letters, invoices, contracts, and any evidence of misconduct. Organize it chronologically.
2
Identify the violations. Review the professional conduct rules for Pennsylvania and identify which rules the attorney appears to have violated. Common violations include Rule 1.1 (competence), Rule 1.4 (communication), Rule 1.15 (client funds), and Rule 8.4 (misconduct).
3
Submit your complaint. File a written complaint with the Disciplinary Board of the Supreme Court of Pennsylvania. Include all supporting documentation and be as specific as possible about dates, facts, and the specific harm caused.
4
Follow up. The grievance committee will typically acknowledge your complaint and assign an investigator. The process can take months to years. Stay in contact and provide any additional information requested.
5
Consider civil remedies. A bar complaint is separate from a legal malpractice lawsuit. If you suffered financial damages, consult with a legal malpractice attorney about your civil remedies, which operate on a different timeline than bar discipline.

What Attorney Misconduct Can You Report?

Rule 1.1 — Competence

Attorney lacks knowledge or skill for the matter

Rule 1.4 — Communication

Attorney fails to respond or keep you informed

Rule 1.15 — Client Funds

Attorney mishandles or steals money held in trust

Rule 1.3 — Diligence

Attorney fails to act with reasonable promptness

Rule 7.1 — Advertising

False or misleading communications about services

Rule 8.4 — Misconduct

Fraud, dishonesty, or criminal acts

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Know a Philadelphia Attorney Who Should Be Investigated?

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