Opinion 1786

RPC Committee strongly supports the philosophy of service to the public. However, the Committee unanimously believes that the WSBA should not endorse private groups in lawyer referral programs. The Committee believes that the concept as presented violates RPC 8.4(c), and further raises the issue that the WSBA is engaged in the practice of law once it endorses and supports such a program as described. Further, as a practical matter, a hotline as described immediately eliminates one half of those in need of assistance and qualify, once such services are provided to the initial inquirer.

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.