Ethical Violations

These instructions pertain only to complaints about ethical violations. This program cannot help you with complaints about attorney's fees. If you have a dispute about the fees you have been charged, see the Fee Dispute section.

Step 1
Complete and print the Ethical Violations Complaint Form (PDF 72K). Information can be typed directly into each field; however, you will not be able to save the document. Navigate by using the tab key. Mail the original, signed and dated complaint form, along with copies of any supporting documents to:

Wyoming State Bar
Board of Professional Responsibility
4124 Laramie Street
P.O. Box 109
Cheyenne, WY 82003-0109

Step 2
When a complaint is received, it is reviewed by Bar Counsel to determine if a violation of the Rules of Professional Conduct is stated. You will receive a letter from Bar Counsel informing you that (1) the complaint does not appear to involve conduct that is within the disciplinary jurisdiction of the Bar; (2) more information is needed; or (3) an investigation has been initiated. If an investigation is initiated, the attorney will receive a copy of your complaint letter and he/she is required to respond in writing to the allegations. You will receive a copy of the attorney's response and will be requested to reply to it.

Step 3
If a lawyer is found to have violated an ethical rule, one of the following levels of discipline may be imposed:

• The lawyer could receive a private reprimand, which means the lawyer is told he or she has broken a rule, and a notation is made on the lawyer's record
• The lawyer could receive a public censure which means that the violation of a rule by the lawyer is made public
• The lawyer's license to practice law could be suspended for up to 5 years, during which time the lawyer cannot practice law
• The lawyer's license could be revoked, which means the lawyer is disbarred from the practice of law. After five years, the lawyer could seek reinstatement.

Questions? Contact Trish Becklinger at (307) 632-9061.