Md. Admin. Order of 2021-11-23 (Updated Administrative and Procedural Guidelines of the ...) 4.8

4.8.1. Bar Counsel may pr ovide assistance to an individual desiring to file a complaint

pursuant to Maryland Rule 19-711(a) and may furnish forms for that purpose.

4.8.2 Bar Counsel may, but is not required to, investigate any complaint which does not

meet the strict requirements of Maryland Rule 19-711.

4.8.3. Bar Counsel may defer an inquiry under Maryland Rule 19-711(b)(1) or a

determination as to whether to docket a complaint pursuant to Maryland Rule 19-

711(b)(3) if Bar Counsel concludes that a civil or criminal action involving material

allegations against the attorney substant ially similar or related to those alleged in

the complaint is pe nding in any court of record in the United States, or that

substantially similar or related allegations presently are under investigation by a

law enforcement, regulatory, or disciplinary agency. Bar Counsel shall notify the

complainant and the Commission of that decision. Bar Counsel shall report to the

Commission on the status of deferred inquiries every six (6) months.

4.8.4. Bar Counsel’s determination that there is an insufficient basis to demonstrate

misconduct or incapacity or that the overall ci rcumstances do not warrant an

investigation pursuant to Maryland Rule 19-711(b)(3) is final. Upon receipt of

additional information, Bar Counsel may, but is not required to, review and/or

reopen the complaint.