View common questions related to the maintaining compliance.
-
Does the State Bar have law practice sections for attorneys?
-
Does the State Bar have information about insurance for attorneys?
-
Does the State Bar have information about malpractice insurance?
-
Where can I find the Rules of Professional Conduct and formal ethic opinions?
-
Where can I find information about opening and closing a law practice?
1. Where can I find information about client trust accounts?
The Handbook on Client Trust Accounting for California Attorneys is the primary resource. The State Bar also maintains an online list of resources on client trust accounting as well as information about IOLTA (Interest on Lawyer Trust Accounts) requirements. If you have questions, please fill out the Licensee Records and Compliance Inquiry Form.
2. Where do I go if I have questions about my MCLE compliance?
Information about MCLE requirements and CLE options is available online. If you have questions, please fill out the Licensee Records and Compliance Inquiry form or call 888-800-3400.
3. Does the State Bar have a legal specialist program?
The State Bar certifies specialists in 11 areas: Admiralty & Maritime, Appellate, Bankruptcy, Criminal, Estate Planning, Family, Franchise & Distribution, Immigration, Legal Malpractice, Taxation, and Workers' Compensation. If you have questions, please fill out the Licensee Records and Compliance Inquiry Form or call 415-538-2120.
4. Does the State Bar have law practice sections for attorneys?
On January 1, 2018, the State Bar’s former sections were transferred to a new independent organization, the California Lawyers Association (CLA).
5. Does the State Bar have information about insurance for attorneys?
The State Bar sponsors several insurance programs specifically designed to serve the needs of licensed attorneys. These programs include Workers’ Compensation insurance, life insurance, and Accidental Death and Dismemberment insurance.
You can find more information about these programs at CalBar Connect. The website is managed by CalBar Connect, a subsidiary of California ChangeLawyers (formerly California Bar Foundation). Purchases you make through CalBar Connect provide legal services to Californians in need.
6. Does the State Bar have information about malpractice insurance?
The State Bar sponsors professional liability insurance through CalBar Connect.
Most legal aid and pro bono programs provide malpractice insurance for attorneys and other advocates volunteering through their organizations. You should always check with your pro bono provider for more specific information about coverage.
7. What happens to my files if my attorney dies?
If your deceased attorney was part of a law firm or law partnership, that firm would maintain custody of your file.
If your deceased attorney was a sole practitioner, you will need to obtain new counsel. Generally, the executor or administrator of the attorney's estate is responsible for notifying clients and returning their files. In some instances, the local superior court may appoint a practice administrator to handle these duties.
In other instances, the deceased attorney's law practice may be sold to another member of the bar. (Such sales are governed by ethical limitations outlined in the Rules of Professional Conduct).
Finally, there are unfortunate instances in which an attorney dies leaving no responsible person in charge of the law practice. In those instances, the State Bar or local county bar associations may assist in winding down the law practice (after obtaining authorization from the Superior Court).
Your first step should be to contact the law offices of your deceased attorney to determine whether your file is available. If you are unsuccessful, you may contact the State Bar Office of Chief Trial Counsel: 800-843-9053.
8. Where can I find the Rules of Professional Conduct and formal ethic opinions?
The Rules of Professional Conduct establish standards of legal ethics and professional responsibility for licensees. The State Bar also provides ethics opinions and other guidance, as well as an Ethics Hotline to ensure that attorneys adhere to their professional responsibilities.
9. Where can I find information about opening and closing a law practice?
The State Bar offers information for attorneys on subjects such as starting a limited liability partnership, rules about starting a law corporation, and closing a practice.
10. What is the Attorney Census?
The State Bar conducts an annual Attorney Census to gather demographic and employment data from the state’s licensees. The Attorney Census contains questions on demographic characteristics, including race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, disability, and veteran’s status. For more information, visit the Frequently Asked Questions about the Attorney Census.