Encouraging ethical practices is an important way for the State Bar to prevent and discourage attorney misconduct. This is where you’ll find many resources, including ethics opinions, education programs and research tools that can aid attorneys in the course of practicing law.
Publication Announcement: The 2019 Publication 250, Volume 1 and Volume 2, which includes the California Rules of Professional Conduct, State Bar Act, selected California Rules of Court and statutes regarding duties of attorneys and discipline, is now available and can be purchased online.
The Ethics Hotline is a confidential research service for attorneys seeking guidance on their professional responsibilities.
As of March 17, the State Bar’s offices in San Francisco and Los Angeles are closed to the public, with all staff required to telecommute. This is expected to continue until April 7, unless changed by a follow-up notification. As a result, until further notice, the Ethics Hotline is operating a modified service. Attorneys may request a call by completing the online Ethics Hotline Research Assistance Request Form. Do not call the Ethics Hotline call center as you cannot use that system for obtaining assistance.
If you complete the online call request form, an Ethics Hotline staff person will return your call between the hours of 9:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday. If this is a time-sensitive matter involving potential imminent physical harm or extreme urgency, you may call: 415- 538-2148.
Additional information regarding law practices affected by natural disaster or catastrophic event can be found on the Ethics News page.
Thank you for your patience and cooperation during this period of modified service and check this page periodically for updates.
The State Bar has plenty of information that can help you manage your client's trust account.