(1) All persons appearing in proceedings before the board are required to follow the rules of professional conduct (RPC) required of attorneys before the courts of Washington. If any such person does not follow these standards, the hearing officer may, in his/her discretion and depending on the circumstances, admonish or reprimand such person, exclude such person from further participation in the proceedings, adjourn the hearing, or report the matter to the board. Outside of the proceedings, all persons are required to treat all parties, representatives, and the board's staff courteously and fairly both inside and outside of the proceedings.

(2) The board in its discretion, either upon referral by a hearings officer or on its own motion, after information comes to light that establishes to the board a question regarding a person's ethical conduct and fitness to practice before the board, and after notice and hearing, may take appropriate disciplinary action including, but not limited to, refusal to permit such person to appear or appear in a representative capacity in any proceeding before the board.