Fresh Start Settlement Program

The Fresh Start Settlement Program is a one-year offer and compromise program, which will run through December 31, 2025, for current and former State Bar licensees to settle their outstanding State Bar debt at a discounted rate. The program is designed to provide welcome relief to licensees hoping to settle their debts and aims to enhance repayment rates while mitigating the severe consequences of debt, including wage garnishments and impact on credit. This program was approved by the Board of Trustees to align with other efforts to make the discipline system fairer and improve revenue collection.

The Fresh Start Settlement Program uses a simple, fast, and secure online portal, available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Those eligible will be able to view their outstanding debt balance, reach a settlement, sign the agreement, and set up their payment all in one place.

Who can participate?

Current and former licensees with outstanding debt (disciplinary costs, Client Security Fund reimbursements, and/or monetary sanctions) owed to the State Bar.

I am eligible. When can I access the Fresh Start Settlement Program website?

Those eligible will be invited to enroll in stages, as follows:

• Former licensees and suspended licensees or licensees not otherwise eligible to practice law (as of January 1, 2025) will be notified by the end of March 2025.
• Licensees on active and voluntary inactive status (as of January 1, 2025) will be notified in May, after the annual fee renewal deadline on April 1.

Who can I contact with questions?

We encourage you to wait for your invitation letter and email. It will contain instructions and contact information for support and questions. If you are having trouble logging on to the online platform after receiving your invitation, or have other questions about the program or platform, please call 1-855-394-5084. If you believe you are eligible and have not received an invitation by May 31, 2025, please make sure the State Bar has your current contact info by emailing collections@calbar.ca.gov.

Visit our FAQ for more information.