The State Bar's Mandatory Fee Arbitration Program (MFA) is an informal, low cost forum for resolving fee disputes between lawyers and their clients. MFA arbitration is mandatory for the lawyer if the client requests arbitration.

• Most fee arbitrations are conducted through local bar association programs. To request fee arbitration program, contact the local bar program with jurisdiction over the fee dispute (usually the county where the majority of legal services were provided). List of Approved Local Bar Mandatory Fee Arbitration Programs
• Mediation of the fee dispute may also be available through some local bar associations.

For commonly used forms or resources relevant to the program, please refer to Forms and Resources. For more information or assistance, call the State Bar Office of Mandatory Fee Arbitration 415-538-2020.

Documents and forms that may be accessed include:

• Consumer pamphlets explaining the MFA Program and Preparing for Arbitration
• Excerpt of California Business & Professions Code, Sections 6200-6206 (The statutes covering the fee arbitration program.)
• Notice of Client's Right to Arbitration
• Rules of Procedures for Fee Arbitrations and the Enforcement of Awards by the State Bar of California & Guidelines and Minimum Standards for the Operation of Mandatory Fee Arbitration Programs
• Notice of Your Rights After Fee Arbitration (Client)