What should a lawyer do if they become aware of misconduct by a fellow attorney?

When a lawyer becomes aware of misconduct by a fellow attorney, the appropriate action is to report the misconduct to the appropriate authority. This obligation is grounded in the ethical duty attorneys have to uphold the integrity of the legal profession and to protect the public from harm that may result from unethical behavior.

Reporting misconduct demonstrates a commitment to the legal standards set forth by the profession and supports accountability. Lawyers have a responsibility to ensure that all members of the legal community adhere to ethical guidelines and legal regulations. This means that when misconduct is identified, it must be addressed through the proper channels, such as the state bar association or disciplinary board.

In contrast, ignoring the misconduct compromises the integrity of the profession and can enable further unethical behavior, potentially harming clients or the justice system at large. Confronting the attorney directly may not always lead to a resolution and can create tension without effectively addressing the issue. Similarly, discussing the misconduct with colleagues might provide some support or advice, but it does not fulfill the lawyer's ethical obligation to report the issue to the relevant authorities.