Rule 3 - Nature of proceedings(a)Disciplinary Proceeding Sui Generis. Lawyer discipline and disciplinary proceedings are neither civil nor criminal, but are sui generis. (b)Procedural Rules. Except as otherwise provided in these rules, the Alabama Rules of Civil Procedure and the Alabama Rules of Appellate Procedure shall apply. (c)Initiation of Disciplinary Process. A disciplinary investigation or proceeding may be initiated by the Supreme Court of Alabama, the General Counsel, or a local grievance committee upon complaint of another person or entity, or upon the Supreme Court's, the General Counsel's, or a local grievance committee's own motion in light of information received or acquired from any source.Amended 7-23-21, eff. 7/23/2021.