Learn About the Discipline System
The Washington Supreme Court has exclusive responsibility for the lawyer discipline and disability system in Washington. Under the Washington Supreme Court's Rules for Enforcement of Lawyer Conduct, the Supreme Court delegates regulatory authority to the Washington State Bar Association's Office of Disciplinary Counsel, the Disciplinary Board, and hearing officers. Ethics rules adopted by the Washington Supreme Court are the Rules of Professional Conduct. For information on discipline for limited practice officers and limited license legal technicians, see the 2023 Discipline System Annual Report.
Structure of the Washington Lawyer Discipline System
Washington Supreme Court: Has exclusive authority over the entire system, conducts appellate review, and orders all suspensions and disbarments, interim suspensions, and reciprocal discipline.
Disciplinary Board: Reviews disciplinary recommendations and dismissals, reviews hearing records and stipulations, and is appointed by the Washington Supreme Court.
Hearing Officers: Conduct public disciplinary hearings and other proceedings and are appointed by the Washington Supreme Court.
Office of Disciplinary Counsel: Receives, reviews, and may investigate grievances; recommends disciplinary action or dismissal; presents cases at hearings.
Resources Links
Annual Reports
Information and statistics about the legal discipline system
