Complaints Against Your Lawyer

If you have problems with your lawyer, we are here to help. If you have questions, call us at (800)932-1900. You may also download the complaint form in English or Spanish [PDF files]

Here are some examples of lawyer conduct that may violate the disciplinary rules:*

• My attorney does not return my phone calls, emails, or letters.
• My attorney failed to appear in court or has missed deadlines.
• I've called my attorney many times, but cannot get any information about my case.
• My attorney refuses to return my file even though I have asked for it.
• My attorney seems to have a substance abuse problem that affects his ability to practice.
• My case has settled but my attorney has not paid me my part of the settlement.

How to File a Complaint: Read the steps and what to expect when you file a complaint.

Contact a Chief Disciplinary Counsel (CDC) Office: Read about the CDC and contact an office in your area.

If You Can't Talk To Your Lawyer, Call Us

If you can't communicate with your lawyer and need some help, call our Client-Attorney Assistance Program (CAAP) for help at:

800.932.1900

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What the Grievance System Cannot Do

The State Bar of Texas' attorney grievance system cannot act as a liaison between you and the attorney, nor can it:

• Award damages;
• Alter the decision made in a civil or criminal matter;
• Substitute for civil or criminal remedies;
• Force an attorney to proceed with a case;
• Provide you with another attorney;
• Provide legal advice; or
• Solve a fee dispute;

The above concerns must be handled in another forum, separate from the State Bar's attorney grievance system.

If you are concerned with the fee arrangement established with your attorney, please know that many local bar associations which are not affiliated with the State Bar have set up fee dispute committees to work with clients and their attorneys. Your local bar association's phone number can be found in your local telephone directory or on the local bar websites section of our website.

The State Commission on Judicial Conduct has a separate process for reviewing complaints against judges.

State Commission on Judicial Conduct
PO Box 12265
Austin, Texas 78711-2265
512-463-5533

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Disciplinary Rules:

* Texas Disciplinary Rules of Professional Conduct [PDF]: All Texas lawyers must follow these conduct rules.

* Texas Rules of Disciplinary Procedure [PDF]: These rules establish the procedures that must be followed in a lawyer discipline case, including how the disciplinary system works and how cases are handled.

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