The State Bar seeks public comment on the following proposal. Please click the links for more information and to comment:

Proposed Formal Opinion Interim No. 19-0004 (Client File Release Retention)

Proposed Formal Opinion Interim No. 19-0004 considers: What are the ethical obligations of lawyers with respect to retention and destruction of client files, materials, and property in closed civil and criminal matters? The opinion interprets rules 1.4, 1.15, 1.16, and 3.8 of the Rules of Professional Conduct of the State Bar of California, Business and Professions Code section 6068, subdivision (e), and Penal Code section 1054.9 Public comment form 

Public comment deadline for these proposals:July 10, 2026.