Your name and contact information The attorney's name, bar number (if known), and firm A clear, factual description of what happened Dates and details of your attempts to contact the attorney Copies of any correspondence (emails, letters, retainer agreement) Your case number and court
The bar complaint process
If your bankruptcy attorney consistently fails to communicate or otherwise violates their ethical obligations, you can file a complaint with the attorney's licensing state bar association.
What to include
- Your name and contact information
- The attorney's name, bar number (if known), and firm
- A clear, factual description of what happened
- Dates and details of your attempts to contact the attorney
- Copies of any correspondence (emails, letters, retainer agreement)
- Your case number and court
What happens after you file
- Screening - The bar reviews the complaint to determine if it alleges a rule violation
- Investigation - If the complaint passes screening, the attorney is notified and asked to respond
- Resolution - Possible outcomes include dismissal, informal resolution, private reprimand, public reprimand, suspension, or disbarment
How to find your state bar's complaint process
Search for "[your state] bar association attorney complaint" or "[your state] lawyer disciplinary board." Every state has a process, though the specific agency name varies.
Note: Filing a bar complaint does not automatically get you a refund, a new attorney, or a different outcome in your case. It is a disciplinary process focused on attorney conduct. For fee disputes, use the court's fee review process under Section 329.
Related Topics
This site is free and open-source. Donations support the Open Bankruptcy Project, a 501(c)(3) public charity (EIN 41-5159631), funding PACER access fees and bankruptcy court transparency research.