Attorney Licensing and Complaints in Mississippi
All attorneys licensed to practice law in Mississippi are regulated by the Mississippi Bar. This page explains how to verify that an attorney is licensed and in good standing, and what to do if you have a complaint about an attorney’s conduct.
How to Verify an Attorney’s License
You can confirm whether an attorney is licensed to practice law in Mississippi and whether their license is currently in good standing by searching the Mississippi Bar’s online member directory at:
The directory allows you to search by name and will show the attorney’s bar number, admission date, and current status. Attorneys in Mississippi must maintain their license annually, including completing required continuing legal education hours.
How to File a Complaint Against an Attorney
If you believe an attorney has acted improperly, violated the Mississippi Rules of Professional Conduct, or otherwise engaged in misconduct, the appropriate channel is the Mississippi Bar’s Office of the General Counsel. That office is responsible for receiving and investigating complaints against attorneys licensed in this state.
To file a complaint, visit the Mississippi Bar website and navigate to the attorney discipline and complaint section, or contact the Office of the General Counsel directly:
Mississippi Bar — Office of the General Counsel
P.O. Box 2168
Jackson, MS 39225-2168
Phone: (601) 948-4471
Website: www.msbar.org
What the Complaint Process Covers
The Mississippi Bar’s disciplinary process exists to address violations of professional conduct rules, such as mishandling of client funds, conflicts of interest, neglect of a client’s matter, dishonesty, and similar issues. It is not a mechanism for resolving fee disputes through arbitration, although the Bar does offer a separate fee dispute resolution program.
The complaint process does not result in monetary compensation to a client. If you believe you have suffered financial harm due to an attorney’s misconduct, you may have a separate legal malpractice claim that you should discuss with another attorney.
Note Regarding the Ocean Springs Bar Association
The Ocean Springs Bar Association is a local professional association for attorneys. It does not regulate attorney licensing, investigate complaints, or impose discipline. All licensing and disciplinary matters must go through the Mississippi Bar as described above.
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