The Ethics of Referral Fees: A 50 State Survey

Fee sharing is one of the most misunderstood aspects of the business of law. Many of these misconceptions can be traced back to law school, where professors often focused exclusively on the ABA Model Rule 1.5, without giving due attention to its caveats. When done correctly, fee sharing is not only ethical, but it leads to much better outcomes for clients.

This program will survey the various regulatory frameworks utilized by states concerning referral fees with the goal of providing lawyers with working understanding of how to employ this tool to benefit their clients and grow their practice.

Mr. Brown will discuss common misconceptions when it comes to referral fees; related ABA Model Rules; what it means to be 'jointly responsible'; what disclosures are necessary for an ethical fee sharing agreement; and states' unique regulatory frameworks.

Learning Objectives:

1. Explore the different regulatory frameworks used by states concerning referral fees

2. Identify common missteps when it comes to referring matters across state lines

3. Ethically use referrals to grow your practice