Ohio Supreme Court Amends Rules of Professional Conduct

The American Bar Association recently made changes to its “Model
Rules of Professional Conduct.” This recent change prompted the
state of Ohio to evaluate its professional rules of conduct. After a thorough
review, Ohio’s Supreme Court ruled to adopt the changes. The most
notable amendments are listed below:

1. Lawyers must stay privy to both the risks and rewards involving technology.
   This includes, but is not limited to, making a “reasonable effort”
   to keep client information confidential.
2. Expanding Rule 4.4 to include electronically stored information. This increases
   the lawyer’s responsibility upon receiving information.
3. Concerning Rules 7.1, 7.2, and 7.3 involving online advertising, telemarketing,
   and text message solicitations.
4. Lawyers are now allowed limited disclosures of confidential information
   for the purpose of discovering and resolving conflicts – conflicts
   that specifically involve a change of employment or ownership of a law firm.
5. Lawyers are prohibited from soliciting minors as potential clients.

To view the amendments,
visit the Supreme Court document.