Three separate complaints about Dunedin lawyer John Milne are being investigated by the Otago branch of the New Zealand Law Society, but no date has been set for a hearing before a disciplinary tribunal.
Mr Milne faces allegations over taking loans from clients.
The Otago branch of the Law Society is preparing charges, which it will lay and prosecute before the New Zealand Lawyers and Conveyancers Disciplinary Tribunal in coming months.
The Serious Fraud Office launched a separate investigation into Mr Milne's activities three weeks ago.
It is understood, but yet to be confirmed, that a total of up to $2 million in loans may be involved and that one client may be owed more than $1 million.
The convener of the standards committee of the Otago branch of the Law Society, David More, said investigations were under way in regard to three complaints lodged against Mr Milne.
One determination had been made and was written up and received by Mr Milne. He now has a 30-day period in which to appeal that determination, which expires on September 21.
Mr More said a second determination had been made but was still being written up and investigations were under way into the third complaint.
Both the second and third complaints would have separate 30-day appeal periods, from the date they are presented to Mr Milne.
Mr More was unable to say what the charges were that would be heard before the tribunal, or any likely date, because the investigation was still under way.
Mr Milne, who no longer has a practising certificate, had his legal practice purchased by Dunedin law firm Craig Paddon Law five years ago, then later worked for that firm in Christchurch, but ceased employment recently.
The law firm had been unaware of Mr Milne borrowing money from clients.
The disciplinary tribunal hearings are open to the public and decisions are made public.
