Yes. All communications with the Ethics Hotline are confidential and not shared with third parties or disciplinary authorities. The Ethics Hotline does not make referrals to the Office of Chief Trial Counsel.
Additional tips before you call:
Have a clear and concise summary of your ethical question or fact pattern.
Be prepared to provide relevant context but avoid disclosing client-identifying information.
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.
