What action is required of a lawyer regarding reporting professional misconduct?

A lawyer is obligated to report professional misconduct when they have actual knowledge that another lawyer has violated the rules of professional conduct in a way that raises a substantial question about that lawyer's honesty, trustworthiness, or fitness to practice law. This requirement is grounded in maintaining the integrity of the legal profession and protecting the public.

The rules emphasize that knowledge is a key factor. A mere suspicion of misconduct does not trigger the reporting obligation; it must be based on actual knowledge. Therefore, distinguishing the requirement for knowledge is crucial.

Reporting others' misconduct is an essential professional responsibility. It supports the ideals of competence, honesty, and service to the public, and it helps maintain the public's trust in the legal profession.

In contrast, other options do not align with the ethical obligations imposed by the MRPC. Option A incorrectly implies that any suspicion necessitates reporting, which is not the case since actual knowledge is required. Option B is inaccurate because the obligation to report applies to lawyers, regardless of whether the misconduct involves judges or other legal professionals. Lastly, option D misinterprets the confidentiality obligations, which do allow for the reporting of misconduct when certain thresholds of knowledge are met, thereby prioritizing the integrity of the profession over confidentiality in the specified circumstances.