News Releases

State Bar’s Board of Trustees waives late fees for attorneys impacted by the federal government shutdown

The State Bar of California Board of Trustees today approved a waiver of licensing fee late payment penalties for attorneys employed by the federal government and affected by the shutdown. Attorneys affected by the shutdown who are unable to remit payment of their 2019 licensing fees by the February 1, 2019, deadline can submit a late payment fee waiver to the State Bar’s Office of Attorney Regulation and Consumer Resources.

The Board of Trustees recognizes that the federal government shutdown is putting unsustainable financial strain on many individuals and families, including approximately 4,000 California attorneys who are employed by the federal government. To alleviate the financial pressure, with the approval of the Board, the State Bar’s Office of Attorney Regulation and Consumer Resources will waive the $100 late fee for attorneys on Active status and $30 for those on Inactive status.

The Board of Trustees also approved the waiver of late payment penalties on other fees that may come due. The Board will revisit this issue at its meeting on March 15 if additional financial relief is needed to address this situation.

Visit the State Bar’s website for more information and instructions.

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The State Bar of California's mission is to protect the public and includes the primary functions of licensing, regulation and discipline of attorneys; the advancement of the ethical and competent practice of law; and support of efforts for greater access to, and inclusion in, the legal system.