R.i. Sup. Ct. R. 9
Processing of complaints involving material allegations which are substantially similar to the material allegations of pending criminal or civil litigation shall not be deferred unless the Board in its discretion, for good cause shown, decides otherwise. In the event a deferment of disciplinary investigation or proceeding is authorized by the Board as a result of pending related litigation, the respondent-attorney shall make all reasonable efforts to obtain the prompt trial and disposition of such pending litigation. In the event the respondent-attorney fails to take reasonable steps to assure prompt disposition of the litigation, the investigation and subsequent disciplinary proceedings indicated shall be conducted promptly.
The acquittal of the respondent-attorney on criminal charges or a verdict or judgment in his or her favor in a civil litigation involving substantially similar material allegations shall not in and of itself justify abatement of a disciplinary investigation predicated upon the same material allegations.
R.i. Sup. Ct. R. 9