State Bar of Michigan Ethics Opinions
Free plain-English summaries of legal ethics opinions issued by the State Bar of Michigan, with full citations and source links on every page.
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Can a candidate for the Michigan Supreme Court criticize a divided opinion of that court during the campaign?
The opinion concluded that a candidate for the Michigan Supreme Court may criticize the majority portion of a divided opinion of that court, and the legal philosophy underlying it, so long as the crit…
Could a Michigan judicial candidate use a 'strict sentencing philosophy' slogan in campaign advertising?
The opinion concluded that a judicial candidate could not use the slogan 'A strict sentencing philosophy!' in campaign literature, because standing alone it created an impression the candidate would s…
Can a lawyer pay a Welcome Wagon type service to deliver the lawyer's welcome letter and pamphlet to newcomers in the community to promote the lawyer's practice?
No; the opinion concluded paying a private intermediary that is not a qualified referral service to recommend or promote the lawyer's services to potential clients violated the disciplinary rules then…
Can a Michigan lawyer advertise legal services by direct mail without it being improper solicitation?
The opinion concluded that a lawyer may advertise legal services by mail, and that such advertising is not impermissible solicitation as long as it is general in nature and is not directed to or inten…
When may a court-appointed defense lawyer ask to be relieved from the appointment in Michigan?
The opinion concluded that an appointed lawyer cannot unilaterally reject the appointment but is bound to disclose disqualifying circumstances, such as lack of competence in the area or strong persona…
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Legal ethics opinions from the State Bar of Michigan interpret the rules of professional conduct for working lawyers, in response to inquiries from members and committees. They are not binding like court discipline decisions, but courts and discipline boards treat formal opinions as substantial guidance on how the rules apply. Every opinion above has a plain-English question and short answer, plus a link to the original source on the bar's site.