The State Bar's Mandatory Fee Arbitration Program is an informal, confidential, and lower-cost forum for resolving fee disputes between lawyers and their clients. This kind of arbitration is required for a lawyer if requested by a client. For more information or assistance, call the State Bar Mandatory Fee Arbitration Program at 415-538-2020
When do I receive the arbitration decision?
Unless the parties have reached a settlement agreement, a decision will not be made at the hearing. After the hearing, you will receive by mail the arbitrator’s “Findings and Award,” as well as a written “Notice of Your Rights After Arbitration,” which explains your options after the award. The findings may provide you a refund of fees or costs, an amount of outstanding fees you owe, or a determination that no money is owed to either party. The arbitrator may also allocate the program filing fee, regardless of which party initially paid it.