Advisory Opinion: 1308

Year Issued: 1989

RPC(s): RPC 1.5(c); 1.5(d)(2)

Subject: Contingent fee in non-criminal traffic matter

The Committee reviewed your inquiry concerning whether a lawyer may charge a contingent fee to defend persons charged with non-criminal traffic infractions. The Committee unanimously agreed that such a fee could be charged because such proceedings are not criminal cases.

Advisory Opinions are provided for the education of the Bar and reflect the opinion of the Committee on Professional Ethics (CPE) or its predecessors. Advisory Opinions are provided pursuant to the authorization granted by the Board of Governors, but are not individually approved by the Board and do not reflect the official position of the Bar association. Laws other than the Washington State Rules of Professional Conduct may apply to the inquiry. The Committee's answer does not include or opine about any other applicable law other than the meaning of the Rules of Professional Conduct.