Opinion 349

Statement of Facts Discussion Conclusion

23 Baylor L. Rev. 891 (1972)
Canons 11, 24

A majority of the members of the Committee on Professional Ethics feel that the acceptance of a credit card is no different from acceptance of a check in payment of legal services. It is a mere convenience to the client and to the attorney for the payment of a fee.

A minority of the members of the Committee on Professional Ethics respectfully dissent and feel that the use of a credit card or other "easy payment plan" would be unethical, and if the same did not violate directly Canons 24 and 11, it would violate the spirit of said Canons. Further, the dissenting members feel that the use of such credit card device tends to place an undue commercial emphasis on the law. See ABA Opinion 151.

All members of the Committee on Professional Ethics feel that to display an emblem or window decal showing the acceptance of such credit card by the attorney would be solicitation in violation of Canon 24. (5-3) (8-0)

An attorney may honor a reputable credit card or similar device in the payment of his fee, but may not display an emblem, window decal or desk emblem displaying his acceptance of such credit card.