Received an ARDC Complaint? What Illinois Lawyers Should Do Next
An ARDC complaint can be stressful, especially if you're unsure what to do next. Join attorney Samuel J. Manella for a practical walk-through of the disciplinary process, from the initial grievance through the Illinois Supreme Court, along with the questions lawyers commonly face when a complaint arrives.
When: Thursday, November 12, 2026, 12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m.
In-Person: ISBA Mutual Insurance Company, 20 S. Clark, Ste. 800, Chicago, IL 60603
Remote: Zoom link will be shared
Key Takeaways for Attendees
First Steps: Learn what to do and what not to do the moment an ARDC complaint or inquiry lands on your desk.
Responding Wisely: A hasty or emotional reply can make a bad situation worse. Understand why and how to respond.
The Process: Follow the ARDC disciplinary process from the initial grievance and investigation through the Inquiry Board, Hearing Board, Review Board, and Illinois Supreme Court.
Beyond Investigation: See what happens when a matter moves past the investigation stage and what that means for you.
Malpractice Overlap: Understand how an ARDC complaint can intersect with a legal malpractice claim.
About Samuel Manella
Samuel Manella
Clinical Professor of Management & Entrepreneurship
Driehaus College of Business, DePaul University
Samuel Manella is a clinical professor who teaches graduate and undergraduate courses in business law, ethics, management, and leadership. In 2005, Manella earned the Daniel Seiden Outstanding Adjunct Teaching Faculty of the Year Award. He has also taught graduate courses in the Czech Republic and Bahrain.
In addition to teaching, Manella manages his own private law practice, Samuel J. Manella, P.C., focusing primarily on professional responsibility and attorney disciplinary law and procedures. He also delivers legal research and letters of opinion on ethical issues as well as expert testimony in attorney ethics matters. Before this role, Manella served as senior counsel for the Illinois Attorney Registration and Disciplinary Commission for the Supreme Court of Illinois. His responsibilities included staff supervision, training and development, and investigating and prosecuting professional misconduct before various boards.
A Double Demon, Manella graduated with honors from the Driehaus College of Business with a Bachelor’s degree in finance and a Juris Doctor degree from the DePaul University College of Law.
Reserve Your Seat for December 17th
Don't wait for a complaint to learn how the process works. Join us at ISBA Mutual's Chicago office or on Zoom to hear Samuel J. Manella explain what to do and what to avoid if the ARDC comes calling.
Attendees also earn 1.0 hour of professional responsibility MCLE credit. Register below to save your spot!