Ethics Opinions

Ethics

Ethics opinions are drafted by the State Bar of California’s Committee on Professional Responsibility and Conduct.

These advisory opinions address the ethical propriety of hypothetical attorney conduct. Although not binding, they are frequently cited in decisions of the California Supreme Court, the State Bar Court Review Department, and the Court of Appeal.

Attorneys may also contact the Ethics Hotline, a telephone research service that assists attorneys with questions relating to their ethical responsibilities. The Ethics Hotline can be reached by calling 800-238-4427 (800-2-ETHICS) in California or 415-538-2150 or by submitting an Ethics Hotline Research Assistance Request Form.

Finding ethics opinions

  • The California Ethics Opinions Table categorizes California-published ethics opinions by subject matter on topics such as conflicts of interest and confidentiality, as well as other topics relevant to professional responsibility. The opinions table is meant to serve as a research aid and entry point into the full text of each opinion.
  • To find ethics opinions, visit the Legal Resource Center, select “Ethics Opinions” in the Resource Category menu on the left side of the screen, and click “Apply.”
  • Can’t find an ethics opinions that addresses your issue? You may request a formal opinion by visiting the Opinion Requests page. Requests will be considered by the Committee on Professional Responsibility and Conduct.

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