Opinion 92
Question Presented
- Would it be a violation of the Canons of Ethics for an attorney to participate in the organization of a collection agency?
- Would it be a violation of the Canons of Ethics for an attorney to call on a prospective client, present his card and advise that he is engaged in and giving special attention to collections?
18 Baylor L. Rev. 233 (1966)
BUSINESS - PARTICIPATION - ADVERTISING
An attorney may participate in the organization of a collection agency, or in any legitimate business, provided he does not advertise himself as an attorney in connection therewith.
SOLICITATION
An attorney may not call on a prospective client, present his card, and advise that he is engaged in and giving special attention to collections.
Canon 24.
As to Question No. 1, the members of the committee are unanimously of the opinion that the Canons do not prohibit the organization of a collection agency by an attorney. These members hold the view that an attorney may ethically participate in any legitimate business enterprise so long as he does not advertise himself as an attorney in connection therewith. (10-0)
As to Question No. 2, the members of the committee are unanimously of the opinion that the conduct described in the question would violate Canon 24, which prohibits the solicitation of professional employment. (10-0)
Bluebook Citation
Tex. Comm. On Professional Ethics, Op. 92 (1953)