Model Rules Recommendations for “Specialists”

After nearly two years of work, the Special Committee to Study the Amendments to the ABA

Model Rules on Advertising has concluded its preliminary review. Members of the committee diligently studied both the Model Rules on advertising and the North Carolina Rules of Professional Conduct on advertising. Their recommendations include revision of the rule text to reflect North Carolina’s historic treatment of the terms “specialist” or “specialize” by specifically prohibiting use of those terms unless the lawyer is certified as a specialist in the field of practice.

During the course of its work, the committee received and considered many communications from specialists supporting North Carolina’s historic protection of these terms. The committee’s current recommendations will be published in the upcoming edition of the State Bar Journal, and can be viewed online. Any specialists wanting to comment on these proposed rule amendments—including support for the proposed rule regarding specialization—can email EthicsComments@ncbar.gov. To be included in the materials to go before the council at its next meeting, comments must be received by October 8, 2020.

Managing Our Messy, Unruly, Chaotic Lives

By Robynn Moraites, Executive Director, NC Lawyer Assistance Program

I wrote this article about four years ago. Today it seems more relevant than ever. In these unprecedented times, it is important to recognize what is within our control and what is not. We know that some of you may be faced with tough choices about your legal practices. LAP is here to support you through whatever challenges you may be facing in your personal and professional lives.

Annual Dues Notices

The Board of Legal Specialization delayed the collection of 2020 annual dues by 90 days in recognition of the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the profession. Invoices were mailed during the first week of August to all current specialists who are not up for recertification in 2020. The deadline for payment is October 1, 2020. Specialists who are up for recertification in 2020 are not required to pay annual dues during their recertification year.