RIBA Submits Comments Opposing DOJ Proposed Rule on Attorney Discipline

The U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) has proposed a rule that would allow the DOJ to internally review state bar complaints against its attorneys and potentially delay or restrict state disciplinary investigations while that review is ongoing.

The Rhode Island Bar Association (RIBA) has submitted formal comments expressing concern that the proposal could undermine the longstanding authority of states through their judiciaries to regulate and discipline attorneys. In Rhode Island, attorney regulation is a core judicial function, and the proposed rule risks interfering with that independent structure.

The comments highlight that the rule could delay or hinder established disciplinary processes, introduce potential conflicts through employer-led review, and place DOJ attorneys in tension with their professional obligations to cooperate with disciplinary authorities.

The Association is particularly concerned that the proposal could weaken transparency, diminish timely accountability, and erode public confidence in the integrity of the legal profession.

Please click here to read the submitted comment.