NH Attorney Discipline Office - Concord, NH

About the Attorney Discipline Office

The New Hampshire Attorney Discipline Office (ADO) acts as the administrative arm of the state's attorney discipline system, operating under the authority of the New Hampshire Supreme Court. Located on Chenell Drive, the office is responsible for receiving and reviewing grievances filed against attorneys licensed to practice in the state. Its primary mission is to protect the public and maintain the integrity of the legal profession by ensuring that lawyers adhere to the Rules of Professional Conduct. The ADO serves as the central intake point for all complaints regarding attorney misconduct.

The Grievance Process

The ADO manages a multi-stage disciplinary process. When a grievance is filed, the General Counsel's office reviews it to determine if the alleged conduct constitutes a violation of professional rules. Valid complaints may proceed to investigation and potentially to a hearing before the Professional Conduct Committee. The system is designed to be accessible to the public, allowing clients to hold their legal representation accountable for ethical lapses. It is important to note that the ADO cannot provide legal advice or intervene in the underlying legal matters of a case.

• Public Protection: Safeguarding clients from unethical legal practices.
• Investigation: Fact-finding on alleged rule violations.
• Accountability: Enforcing ethical standards for the NH Bar.

Office Information

The Attorney Discipline Office is located in an office park environment, distinct from the main courthouse facilities. The office is open to the public during business hours for the purpose of obtaining grievance forms or information about the disciplinary process. However, staff attorneys cannot give advisory opinions to the public. Most interactions, including the submission of complaints, can be initiated through mail or by downloading forms from their official website.