If an attorney in Michigan has crossed the line to include lying to the court, suppressing evidence, violating ethics rules, enabling a vexatious litigant, you don’t just have to sit back and fume.
The Michigan Attorney Grievance Commission (AGC) exists for one reason: to investigate and discipline lawyers who abuse their power.
But here’s the catch: a sloppy or vague complaint can get tossed before it’s even read.
Let’s break down how to make your grievance clear, factual, and impossible to ignore.
Step 1: Understand What the AGC Can (and Can’t) Do
The AGC is not your personal lawsuit machine. It can’t award you money, overturn a conviction, or rewrite a court order.
What they can do:
- Investigate misconduct that violates the Michigan Rules of Professional Conduct (MRPC)
- Recommend discipline to the Attorney Discipline Board (ADB), including suspension or disbarment
Examples of actionable misconduct:
- Lying to a judge or falsifying evidence
- Conflict of interest not disclosed to a client
- Misappropriating client funds
- Failing to communicate with a client or meet deadlines that harm a case
Step 2: Get the Complaint Form (and Read It Carefully)
You can download the complaint form directly from the AGC website or request a copy by mail.
Link: Michigan Attorney Grievance Commission – File a Complaint
The form will ask for:
- Your name and contact information
- The attorney’s name and contact details
- Case numbers and court names if applicable
- A detailed description of the misconduct
Step 3: Stick to Facts, Not Feelings
Just like judicial complaints, this is where most complaints die.
The AGC doesn’t care how angry you are; they care about what happened, when it happened, and what rule it broke.
Do:
- Use dates, locations, and direct quotes where possible
- Attach supporting documents (court filings, emails, letters, transcripts)
- Keep it chronological
Don’t:
- Rant or call names (“This scumbag lawyer…” or “this f*cking guy” … don’t do it). It makes you look less credible
- Include irrelevant personal attacks
Step 4: Connect the Dots to the Rules
If you can, cite the Michigan Rules of Professional Conduct that were violated. You don’t have to be a lawyer, even noting “possible violation of MRPC 3.3 – Candor Toward the Tribunal” shows you’ve done your homework.
A quick reference: Michigan Rules of Professional Conduct (MRPC)
Step 5: Submit It the Right Way
You can mail or deliver the complaint in person:
Mail:
Attorney Grievance Commission
3034 W. Grand Blvd., Suite 8-450
Detroit, MI 48202
Keep a copy for yourself and send it certified mail if you want proof of receipt.
Step 6: Follow Up…and Be Patient
The AGC will send you a confirmation letter. From there, they may:
- Request more information
- Dismiss the complaint if it lacks merit
- Begin a formal investigation
These investigations can take months. Don’t expect updates every week, but don’t be afraid to check in.
Final Clutch Justice Tip
A good complaint is a bulletproof record; something so clear that even the most protectionist oversight body can’t brush it off. If you’re holding proof of misconduct, don’t just complain; document, submit, and demand action.
The system is only as accountable as the people who force it to be.
🖤 Love what we do? Support Clutch.
