Advisory Opinion Letters - Frequently Asked Questions
- Who may request an advisory opinion letter?
- What factors will the Board consider before deciding whether to issue an advisory opinion letter?
- What should be included in a request for an advisory opinion letter?
- To whom should a request for an advisory opinion letter be sent?
- Must the Board issue an advisory opinion letter if requested to do so?
- Who may I contact if I have further questions about advisory opinion letters?
Who may request an advisory opinion letter?
The Board may issue informal, nonbinding advisory opinion letters to any regularly organized bar association in Ohio or the Office of Disciplinary Counsel.
What factors will the Board consider before deciding whether to issue an advisory opinion letter?
The Board may issue an advisory opinion letter in response to prospective or hypothetical questions of public or great general interest regarding the application of Gov. Bar R. VII and the unauthorized practice of law. The Board shall not issue an advisory opinion letter in response to a request concerning a question that is pending before a court or a question of interest only to the person making the request.
What should be included in a request for an advisory opinion letter?
The request should include information and details sufficient to enable adequate consideration and determination of eligibility under Gov. Bar R. VII.
To whom should a request for an advisory opinion letter be sent?
The request should be sent in writing to the Secretary of the Board at the following address:
The Board on the Unauthorized Practice of Law
65 South Front Street, 5th Floor
Columbus, Ohio 43215.3431
Must the Board issue an advisory opinion letter if requested to do so?
No; the Board has discretion to decline to issue an opinion letter.
Who may I contact if I have further questions about advisory opinion letters?
You should contact the Secretary of the Board at the following address:
Board on the Unauthorized Practice of Law
65 South Front Street, 7th Floor
Columbus, Ohio 43215.3431614.387.9327 (telephone)
614.387.9529 (facsimile)