Do attorneys follow specific rules of professional conduct?
The standards governing the conduct of Rhode Island attorneys are clearly set forth in the Rules of Professional Conduct. These rules were adopted by the Rhode Island Supreme Court to define and regulate the daily professional behavior of attorneys and are enforced by the Rhode Island Supreme Court Disciplinary Board. Not all complaints come to the Board. Often, for instance, when problems exist between an attorney and a client, they can be mutually resolved without the Board’s involvement. However, there are times when this is not possible and reasons exist for filing a formal complaint.