Whether you’re in court as a plaintiff or defendant in a lawsuit or as someone who’s been charged with a crime, you know that you’re required to tell the truth. When you’re under oath – whether on the witness stand or in a conference room during a deposition, knowingly lying can result in a charge of perjury.
What about your attorney? These professionals are bound by even stricter standards. They are required to comply with a number of rules of ethics detailed by the state bar association and/or Supreme Court.
What are the repercussions for attorney misconduct?
When they don’t comply with those, they can be subject to disciplinary action, including the loss of their license to practice and a lawsuit by their clients for malpractice. If they’ve broken the law, they can face criminal consequences as well.
If you believe that your attorney has lied to you or intentionally misled you, you have the right to report them. You may also be able to take legal action against them if their actions led to the loss of your case and financial or other harm.
Who protects Colorado residents from attorney misconduct?
Here in Colorado, the state Supreme Court has an Office of Attorney Regulation Counsel that investigates allegations of attorney misconduct by clients and others. That includes “knowingly lying to you or a court.”
If you believe that your attorney is guilty of negligence or another form of malpractice, it’s wise to make sure that you are taking the appropriate steps to deal with it. Seek new legal guidance specifically to deal with the misconduct that has caused you or a loved one harm.