PUBLIC SERVICE ANNOUNCEMENT
Office of Disciplinary Counsel
City Center East, Suite 1200C • 4700 MacCorkle Avene SE
Charleston, West Virginia  25304
Telephone (304) 558-7999 • Fax: (304) 558-4015
For Immediate Release

Date:           January 13, 2014
Contact:      Rachael L. Fletcher Cipoletti
Chief Lawyer Disciplinary Counsel
Phone:         (304) 558-7999
Fax:             (304) 558-4015

The primary purpose of the West Virginia Office of Lawyer Disciplinary Counsel is to protect the public, to reassure the public as to the reliability and integrity of attorneys, and to safeguard its interests in the administration of justice. The public expects lawyers to exhibit the highest standards of integrity and honesty. Lawyers have a duty not to engage in conduct involving dishonesty, fraud, or interference with the administration of justice. Lawyers are officers of the court and must operate within the bounds of the law and act in a manner to maintain the integrity of the Bar.

In light of the recent events, the Office of Lawyer Disciplinary Counsel reminds citizens that there are strict rules that prohibit lawyers or anyone acting on behalf of a lawyer or a law firm from direct in-person or telephone solicitation with prospective clients that the lawyer or law firm has no family or prior professional relationship. Additionally, a lawyer or law firm is permitted to directly solicit prospective clients by mail or by recorded communication, but it must clearly designated as “Advertising Material” and may not involve coercion, duress or harassment.

Violations of the Rules of Professional Conduct should be reported to the West Virginia Office of Lawyer Disciplinary Counsel. You may contact the Office at 304-558-7999 and you may access the website at www.wvodc.org.