What to Expect When Filing a Grievance

What should you expect?

An acknowledgment of receipt of the grievance
A fair and impartial review performed by the Attorney Disciplinary Office (ADO)
An efficient disposition of your grievance (being mindful of the complexity of the matter, cooperation of all parties, and availability of documents, among other things, which may affect the time frame)
If a case is docketed, the ADO will investigate the matter and may communicate with you, the attorney, and in some cases, other parties, to obtain information
To receive official notification of the disposition of your grievance

What should you NOT expect?

Assistance or advice from the ADO with respect to your legal matter
Direction from the ADO to your attorney to take or refrain from a particular action
Representation by the ADO with respect to your legal matter
A referral by the ADO to a new lawyer to handle your matter*
Assistance in handling a fee dispute**
Reimbursement or other monetary compensation through the process***

* If you need a new attorney, contact the New Hampshire Bar Association Lawyer Referral Service at www.nhbar.org/lawyer-referral-service.

**Fee disputes are not handled within the attorney discipline process. Individuals should pursue fee disputes with the New Hampshire Bar Association Dispute Resolution Committee at www.nhbar.org/nhba-dispute-resolution-committee/.

*** If you sustained a financial loss as a result of your attorney’s dishonest conduct, you may file a claim with the New Hampshire Bar Association Public Protection Fund. Claim forms and additional information may be found at www.nhbar.org/public-protection-fund.