The public and attorneys have an opportunity to submit written comments about policy issues before the Board of Trustees. These issues may include proposals such as amendments to the Rules of Professional Conduct and ethics opinions. Comments may be directed to the address listed on each proposal.
To receive email notifications about upcoming public comment opportunities, please use the signup form at the top of this webpage. For further questions please email communications@calbar.ca.gov.
The State Bar seeks public comment on revised proposed amendments to California Rule of Court 9.7, which requires that, prior to admission to the State Bar, an attorney complete a civility pledge with their oath for admission. The amendments would require that all licensees and certain attorneys authorized to practice in California submit a one-time declaration to the State Bar affirming that they will conduct themselves with civility and complete an annual civility pledge. The State Bar also seeks comment on a new State Bar Rule 2.3, which is the implementing rule for the proposed amendments to Rule of Court 9.7.
Source
Board of Trustees sitting as the Regulation and Discipline Committee
Deadline
June 23, 2023, 11:59 p.m.
Comments should be submitted using this online Public Comment Form.
The State Bar seeks public comment on revised proposed amendments to California Rules of Professional Conduct 1.2 and 8.4, and new proposed Rule of Professional Conduct 8.4.2 to address incivility in the practice of law. These changes would clarify that a lawyer may be disciplined for incivility under current rules, as well as provide a new basis in the rules for discipline for incivility in the practice of law.
The State Bar seeks public comment on proposed amendments to State Bar Rules governing MCLE.
The State Bar seeks public comment on proposed amendments to the rules governing Mandatory Fee Arbitration consisting of revisions to existing rules and the creation of new rules to address the appointment and qualifications of fee arbitrators.
July 17, 2023, 11:59 p.m.
The State Bar is seeking comment on amendments to the rules requiring licensees to comply with rules prior to returning to active status, requiring licensees to provide information to the State Bar, making changes to the Client Trust Account Protection Program (CTAPP), making fee waivers more accessible, clarifying the distinction between the New Attorney Training (NAT) and Minimum Continuing Legal Education (MCLE), and eliminating exemptions from the NAT.
July 26, 2023, 11:59 p.m.
The State Bar seeks public comment on proposed amendments to modify rule 4.41, as it is currently a barrier to admission for out-of-state attorney applicants, and align rule 4.62 (the return of exam materials) with current practice.
Board of Trustees and Committee of Bar Examiners
The State Bar seeks public comment on Proposed Formal Opinion Interim No. 20-0001 (Lawyer as Expert Witness).
Committee on Professional Responsibility and Conduct
August 18, 2023, 11:59 p.m.