Yes, to the extent consistent with the information needed to research the issue.
Does the Ethics Hotline provide written responses?
No, the Ethics Hotline does not provide written opinions or research memoranda. Assistance is offered by phone, and staff will identify relevant rules, cases, and ethics opinions during the call.
At its joint meeting on Friday, January 23, 2026, the Board of Trustees and the Committee of Bar Examiners voted to explore a plan that could have the State Bar, beginning in 2028, administer the National Conference of Bar Examiners’ NextGen Uniform Bar Examination, without a California-specific component.
The State Bar of California is inviting a new round of legal employers across the state to apply for its DEI Leadership Seal—a distinction recognizing organizations that commit to and implement research-driven actions that further workplace diversity, equity, and inclusion in the legal profession. Applications are due March 27, 2026.
The State Bar of California announced today that it seized the illegal business of Teresita Garcia of Upland on Friday, January 9, 2026, after receiving complaints—confirmed by Garcia’s former employee—that Garcia represented herself as an attorney when she has never been licensed to practice law in California.
The State Bar of California seized the business of Jose Baez of West Covina on Friday, December 19, 2025, for engaging in the unauthorized practice of law (UPL), the Office of Chief Trial Counsel (OCTC) announced today.
Will I be assessed fees from the State Bar?
Yes. The 2025 annual fees will be available to calculate and pay online through My State Bar Profile effective February 1, 2025.
What are the different levels of discipline that the State Bar Court imposes on attorneys?
The Probation Unit of the Office of Chief Trial Counsel monitors attorneys' compliance with the conditions imposed on suspensions and reprovals.
The State Bar Court also may put attorneys on involuntary inactive status if they appear to pose a serious threat to the public.
If a State Bar investigation indicates that an attorney's conduct only bordered on a violation or was a minor breach, State Bar prosecutors may choose an alternative to discipline.
The State Bar's Office of Chief Trial Counsel could decide to send a Directional or Warning Letter to the attorney - and close the case. Or they could issue an Admonition informing the attorney that no further action will take place as long as they stay out of trouble for two years. Or they could settle on an Agreement in Lieu of Discipline that requires the attorney to fulfill specially tailored remedial conditions.
