KBA E-367

Question: May an Attorney offer gifts or incentives to Realtors to encourage the Realtors to request that lenders refer real estate closings to Attorney's office?

Answer: No.

References: Kentucky Rule of Professional Conduct 7.20(2)

OPINION

The question states that something of value will be offered to Realtors for recommendations and referrals. This proposal violates Rule 7.20(2), which provides: "A lawyer shall not give anything of value to a non-lawyer for recommending the lawyers services, except that a lawyer may pay the reasonable cost of advertising or communication permitted by this rule."

RICHARD H. UNDERWOOD

CHAIR, ETHICS COMMITTEE