After the Complaint is Filed

After the Complaint is Filed

1. Your complaint will be reviewed by the Grievance Council. Their job is to review complaints to determine if the allegations made, if taken as true, might support a violation of the Article(s) and/or MLS Rules cited in the complaint.




2. If the Grievance Council dismisses your complaint, it does not mean they don't believe you. Rather, it means that they have determined that your allegations even if proved to be true would not be a violation of a Code of Ethics Article, MLS Rule or other membership duty. For example, the complaint may be that an agent used profanity. Although, extremely disrespectful, it does not fall under any of the rules enforced by the Association.




3. If the Grievance Committee forwards your complaint for hearing, that does not mean they have decided that there has been a violation. Rather, it means they have determined that the facts you allege - if proven with "clear and convincing evidence" at the hearing, may be a violation of an Article, MLS rule of other membership duty as cited.




4. If your complaint is dismissed, or modified and you do not agree with the decision, you can appeal the decision to the Board of Directors.




5. You will be sent a roster of the eligible Professional Standards panel members; you have the right to challenge any member on the list that you do not want as a potential panelist.




6. Keep in mind, all elements of the complaint process are carefully timed to provide all parties with due process. Do not delay in responding to any notices or requests from the Association.