The Ethics and Grievance Committee is a standing committee charged with promoting professional conduct and responsibility among the legal profession in American Samoa.  As part of the duties, the Committee assists the High Court in enforcing the disciplinary rules and handling grievances.  The disciplinary system of American Samoa is overseen by the High Court of American Samoa.

The American Samoa rules of professional responsibility are outlined in the HIGH COURT RULES.  HCR 104 states that attorneys are guided by the American Bar Association Model Rules of Professional Conduct. HCR 103 states that judges are guided by the Canons of Judicial Ethics. Judicial ethics are also described in the Model Code of Judicial Conduct.

Attorneys may utilize the ABA’s ETHICSearch service by calling 1-800-285-2221 (option 8) or by This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. . The ETHICSearch provides free consultation and initial research.

If you believe there has been an ethics violation by an individual licensed to practice law in American Samoa, please complete our Ethics Grievance Form and mail the form to:

American Samoa Bar Association

Ethics and Grievance Committee
P.O. Box 23
Pago Pago, American Samoa 96799