RULE 10. ACCESS TO INFORMATION

(a) Confidentiality During Proceedings. An ongoing disciplinary proceeding is confidential (1) unless the attorney subject to the proceeding requests that it be made a public record or (2) except to the extent that a panel may disclose the subject matter and status of a proceeding if the proceeding is based on a conviction of a serious crime, or an allegation that has become generally known to the public, or there is a need to notify another person or entity to protect the public, the legal profession, or the administration of justice. (b) Confidentiality Upon Issuance of a Final Order. A final order issuing a private reprimand or imposing no discipline and the record of those proceedings are confidential unless the attorney subject to the proceeding requests that it be made a public record. If other discipline is imposed, a final order and the record will be made a public record at the time of issuance of a final order. However, a panel may issue a permanent Federal Circuit Rules of Practice (December 1, 2025) Page 224 protective order prohibiting the disclosure of any part of the record to protect the interest of a complainant, a witness, a third party or nonparty, or the attorney. (Return to Table of Contents)