Proposed Modifications to Rules Related to Lawyer Referral Services
The State Bar seeks public comment on proposed amendments to rules related to Lawyer Referral Services to implement Business and Professions Code section 6155 and modernize State Bar regulatory standards.
Deadline: April 16, 2026, 11:59 p.m. (45 days)
Direct comments to
Comments should be submitted using the online Public Comment Form. The online form allows you to input your comments directly and can also be used to upload your comment letter and/or other attachments.
Background
The State Bar regulates Lawyer Referral Services (LRSs) through Title 3, Division 5, Chapter 3 of the Rules of the State Bar. Recent legislation, effective January 1, 2025, authorizes certified LRSs to partner with nonprofit organizations to expand access to legal services. To implement this statutory change and align with current practices, the State Bar is proposing amendments that clarify definitions, update procedures, and establish minimum standards for these partnerships.
Discussion/proposal
The proposed amendments introduce a new Article 3 establishing a regulatory framework for partnerships between certified Lawyer Referral Services and eligible nonprofit organizations. These rules define the roles and responsibilities of each party, detail the required notice and approval process, and clarify that the LRS remains fully accountable for compliance and consumer protection.
The proposal also updates existing rules to reflect current practices. Key changes include revised definitions, clarified application and recertification procedures, expanded performance measurement requirements, and updated notice, recordkeeping, and reporting standards. Several amendments modernize communication and technology provisions, including quality control requirements for automated referral systems.
The revisions further streamline multicounty operations by allowing more flexibility in panel structure and geographic service areas, which may reduce barriers for underserved regions.
Collectively, the amendments are intended to improve transparency, increase access to justice, support responsible innovation, and ensure that LRSs and their nonprofit partners operate with clear expectations and consistent oversight.
The proposed rules were circulated for a 45-day public comment period, which concluded on January 10, 2026. In response to the comments received, the revisions include: (1) clarifying that the State Bar is required to review complaints concerning uncertified lawyer referral services (rule 3.807); (2) making nonsubstantive edits to remove unnecessary language and correct a typographical error (rule 3.826); and (3) explicitly requiring interim reporting of changes in ownership interests (rule 3.828).
Any fiscal/personnel impact
The proposed revisions are expected to be implemented within existing staff resources. No significant fiscal or personnel impact is anticipated beyond routine regulatory oversight.
If additional administrative workload emerges due to increased partnership notices or audits, the State Bar will address these needs within current program operations.
Comments should be submitted using the online Public Comment Form. The online form allows you to input your comments directly and can also be used to upload your comment letter and/or other attachments.
