Business and Professions Code section 6044

The chief trial counsel, with or without the filing or presentation of any complaint, may initiate and conduct investigations of all matters affecting or relating to:

(a)

The discipline of the licensees of the State Bar.

(b)

The acts or practices of a person whom the chief trial counsel has reason to believe has violated or is about to violate any provision of Articles 7 (commencing with Section 6125) and 9 (commencing with Section 6150) of this chapter.

(c)

Any other matter within the jurisdiction of the State Bar.