Referral fees are unethical. My state prohibits referral fees. Such fees must be based on ‘work performed’ and are only proper for contingency matters. Misconceptions abound.
The reality is that numerous state bars have noted that fee sharing is not only ethical — but it actually leads to better outcomes for clients. Come get cozy with Curt Brown and the rules of professional conduct as he surveys the regulatory frameworks of the ABA and all 50 states so you know the ethical landscape when referring or accepting cases from fellow attorneys in your state and around the country. Curt will primarily discuss common misconceptions, ABA Rule 1.5 and the ethical approach states have taken to promote referrals amongst attorneys. Curt will also talk about best practices, 4 common myths, joint responsibility, disclosures, “reasonable fees,” ongoing responsibilities after referring a matter, pure referral states, crossing state lines, international issues and dealing with nonlawyer companies and law firms based abroad. What Curt will NOT cover in this CLE: Referrals to & from Non-lawyers, Runners & Cappers and Lawyer Referral Services.
Mr. Brown is Co-Founder and Chief of Legal Innovation at Overture and also serves as Overture’s General Counsel. In 2023, he was named a Rising Star by Super Lawyers.