1. The Role of the Professional Standards Board in Discipline Matters
FICPI Australia
July 2010
Julie Ballance

2. Legislative Framework
Reg PSB has sole responsibility for commencing and conducting proceedings
unsatisfactory professional conduct = may commence proceedings
professional misconduct = must commence proceedings

3. Legislative Framework cont’d
the Board may investigate either as “a result of information received or of its own motion”
patterns of behaviour may be considered
attorney may be required to co-operate

4. What happens when information is received?
referred by the Secretary to the discipline sub- committee for consideration
the Attorney may be asked explain his/her view of the situation
referred to the Board for discussion and resolution/further action

5. Considerations of the Board
evidence
nature of the dispute
likelihood of a finding of unsatisfactory/ unprofessional misconduct
Code of Conduct
realistically - cost

6. Statistics

7. Complaints – typical examples/issues
fees
terms of engagement
conflict
behaviour

8. What should you do if a complaint is made about you?
Don’t panic!

10. Questions/discussion