Rule 9.2 Restrictions on Filing Disciplinary Complaints

Lawyers cannot make deals that stop someone from filing a complaint against them with the disciplinary board. This means a lawyer cannot ask a client (or anyone else) to sign an agreement promising not to report bad behavior, even as part of a settlement or business deal.

The same goes for complaints that have already been filed. A lawyer cannot pressure someone into asking the disciplinary board to drop or dismiss a complaint that's already in progress, even if the lawyer offers something in exchange, like a settlement or refund.

This rule exists to protect the disciplinary system itself. People need to feel free to report lawyer misconduct without fear of breaking a contract or facing legal trouble. If a lawyer breaks this rule, the punishment can be as serious as losing their license to practice law.