Ethics Statement

At Melvin & Torrone, PLLP, we believe that the practice of law is a public trust. Every attorney at our firm is bound not only by the Washington Rules of Professional Conduct (RPC) but by a personal commitment to ethical practice that goes beyond minimum compliance.

Washington Rules of Professional Conduct

All attorneys at Melvin & Torrone, PLLP are licensed by the Washington State Bar Association and adhere to the Washington Rules of Professional Conduct. These rules establish the ethical framework that governs every aspect of our practice, from client communications to courtroom conduct.

Duty of Competence

We are committed to providing competent representation to every client. Under RPC 1.1, this means bringing the legal knowledge, skill, thoroughness, and preparation reasonably necessary for effective representation. Our attorneys maintain their competence through continuing legal education, peer collaboration, and staying current with developments in family law and criminal defense.

Confidentiality

Attorney-client privilege is foundational to effective legal representation. Under RPC 1.6, we protect all information relating to the representation of a client. This duty of confidentiality extends beyond current matters and continues after the attorney-client relationship has concluded. We maintain strict protocols to safeguard client information in both physical and digital environments.

Conflicts of Interest

We take conflicts of interest seriously. Under RPC 1.7 and 1.9, we maintain rigorous conflict-checking procedures to ensure that representing one client does not adversely affect another. When a potential conflict arises, we address it transparently and take appropriate action, which may include declining representation or obtaining informed written consent from affected parties.

Given our dual practice in family law and criminal defense, where the same matter may involve both civil and criminal proceedings, we are particularly vigilant about identifying and managing conflicts that could arise from overlapping cases.

Candor to the Tribunal

Under RPC 3.3, our attorneys maintain absolute candor with the courts. We do not knowingly make false statements of fact or law to a tribunal, and we take reasonable remedial measures when we learn that material evidence or statements were false. Our credibility before the court is essential to effective advocacy, and we never compromise it.

Fairness and Integrity

We believe in vigorous advocacy within the bounds of the law. Under RPC 3.4, we do not obstruct access to evidence, falsify evidence, or engage in conduct intended to disrupt a tribunal. We treat opposing counsel, parties, and witnesses with professional respect, even in the most contentious matters.

Communication with Clients

Under RPC 1.4, we are committed to keeping our clients informed about the status of their matters. This includes promptly responding to communications, explaining legal issues in accessible terms, and providing sufficient information for clients to make informed decisions about their cases. We believe that transparent communication builds the trust necessary for effective representation.

Pro Bono Commitment

Access to justice is a core value of our firm. In accordance with RPC 6.1, our attorneys aspire to provide pro bono legal services to those who cannot afford representation. We believe that every person deserves competent legal advocacy regardless of their financial circumstances, and we regularly dedicate time and resources to serving our community through pro bono work.

Accountability

We hold ourselves accountable to our clients, to the courts, and to the legal profession. If you have concerns about the ethical conduct of any attorney at our firm, we encourage you to bring those concerns to our attention directly. You may also contact the Washington State Bar Association.

Contact

Melvin & Torrone, PLLP
950 Pacific Ave, Suite 720
Tacoma, WA 98402
Phone: (253) 327-1280
Email: info@melvintorrone.com