A bridge to resolve attorney-client issues before they become discipline complaints

As illustrated in the chart above, ACBP resolutions increased significantly starting in June 2024, peaking in August. During the same period, OCTC's closures of communication and return-of-file cases declined. This shift suggests that the ACBP is successfully diverting appropriate cases, resolving them earlier through informal means, and reducing the burden on the formal discipline system -- all while preserving the public's trust. Chart provided by the State Bar of California.

Even the best attorney-client relationships can falter over what are often seemingly small issues, such as unreturned phone calls or a delay in returning client files. These concerns can escalate unnecessarily, undermining trust in the attorney-client relationship and even lead to a formal discipline complaint. The State Bar of California's new Attorney-Client Bridge Program (ACBP) offers a practical and preventive alternative. 

Launched as a pilot in March 2024 and made permanent in 2025 with State Bar diversion funds provided by Assembly Bill 3279, the ACBP provides a way for clients and attorneys to resolve low-level issues without triggering a formal complaint or involving the Office of Chief Trial Counsel (OCTC). It's part of a broader commitment to modernize our regulatory approach -- ensuring the public is protected while allowing attorneys a path to resolve concerns informally and avoid potential discipline. 

The ACBP is overseen by the Office of Public Trust Liaison (PTL) and currently focuses on two types of common but consequential issues: 

 Communication breakdowns -- such as a lack of attorney response to emails or phone calls 

 Requests for return of client files -- once the attorney-client relationship has ended

The ACBP offers attorneys an opportunity to address concerns quickly, preserve client goodwill, and avoid lasting damage to their professional record. For clients, it offers faster, less adversarial relief, without the burden of navigating a formal complaint. Clients or former clients initiate the process by submitting a request for assistance from the PTL. After a screening for eligibility, the PTL reaches out to the attorney to invite voluntary participation. If both parties agree, the PTL serves as a neutral intermediary to facilitate resolution. The attorney has 10 business days to comply, and that is it -- no disciplinary record is created. However, if an attorney ignores the request or agrees but does not comply within 10 days, the client may elect to file a complaint with OCTC. 

The results from the pilot are promising. Through June 2025, approximately 728 attorneys and clients have successfully utilized the program to resolve issues. As ACBP resolutions increased throughout mid-to-late 2024, the number of formal OCTC closures in communication and return-of-file cases declined. These trends suggest the ACBP is effectively diverting appropriate matters and resolving them earlier -- before regulatory intervention is needed. 

The ACBP is part of the State Bar's commitment to complaint diversion, helping OCTC focus on protecting the public from the most serious and egregious attorney misconduct.  

Programs like the ACBP also support a healthier, more responsive legal profession. They recognize that regulation isn't just about enforcement -- it's about problem-solving. As we all collectively work to build trust in California's legal system, early resolution programs like the ACBP will play an important role in aligning public expectations with practical and fair outcomes for all. 

To learn more about the Attorney-Client Bridge Program or to request assistance, visit www.calbar.ca.gov/ACBP.