Formal complaint filed for Lee hearing

EPHRATA - The Washington State Bar Association formalized its allegations against Grant County Prosecutor Angus Lee.

Washington State Bar Association Associate Director Christine Gray filed a formal complaint July 25 concerning Lee in preparation of his case heading to a hearing. A review committee decided in April to refer the case to a hearing examiner to review.

Debra Carnes, the association's chief communication officer explained the filing of a formal complaint is part of the process in getting the case ready to go in front of a hearing officer. A public hearing has not been scheduled yet.

The hearing officer can choose to dismiss the case, issue an admonition, reprimand or recommend suspension or disbarment, said Judy Berrett, the former bar communications director. An admonition would stay on Lee's record for five years, but not prevent him from practicing law. A reprimand would stay on his permanent record, but not prevent him from practicing law.

If the hearing officer recommends removing Lee from the bar association or suspending him, then the matter would go to the state Supreme Court, she said.

- Staff report