Ethics/Professional Responsibility
Nov. 13, 2025
What California lawyers need to know about DC ethics advice
California lawyers and law firms should evaluate whether entering into agreements with the government that restrict their practice, including settlements, could breach their ethical duties.
Marc D. Alexander
Attorney and Mediator
Alternative Resolution Centers (ARC)
In October 2025, the D.C. Bar issued Ethics Opinion 391, concluding: "Lawyers and law firms that contemplate agreeing with a government to conditions that may limit or shape their law practices must examine whether such conduct will create issues under the Rules of Professional Conduct."
The narrow question here is whether California lawyers, law firms, and the Calif...
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