The Supreme Court of Missouri announced on Apr. 2 new rules that will restructure the state’s lawyer disciplinary system, consolidating all complaint investigations within the Office of Chief Disciplinary Counsel (OCDC) starting Jan. 1, 2027.
The changes aim to create a more consistent and efficient process for investigating complaints against lawyers across Missouri. Currently, different regions have varied investigative procedures, but the new structure seeks to ensure statewide uniformity in handling professional conduct issues.
Under the revised rules, full-time OCDC staff will handle all complaint investigations under the supervision of Chief Disciplinary Counsel Andrea K. Spillars. “Initiating disciplinary action is a serious matter and necessarily requires a thorough investigative effort to determine whether a complaint is supported by evidence demonstrating a rule violation,” Spillars said. The adjudication process remains unchanged: both lawyer and non-lawyer volunteers appointed by the court will continue serving as disciplinary hearing officers and on advisory committees, with final decisions resting with the Supreme Court.
The previous bifurcated system originated in 1934 when volunteer Circuit Bar Committees conducted investigations and prosecutions of alleged misconduct. In 1991, OCDC was created to oversee these matters directly or assign them to regional committees; since then, some regions such as Kansas City, St. Louis, and Springfield used volunteer investigators while others relied on OCDC staff.
Spillars acknowledged the contributions of volunteers: “Volunteerism is a hallmark of the legal profession… your service is greatly appreciated.” She encouraged current committee members to assist during this transition period through 2026.
Looking ahead, officials say these reforms are intended to strengthen public trust in Missouri’s legal profession by ensuring fair enforcement of ethical standards statewide.
