California Bar Rule 3-120. Sexual Relations With Client

(A) For purposes of this rule, "sexual relations" means sexual intercourse or the touching of an intimate part of another person for the purpose of sexual arousal, gratification, or abuse.

(B) A member shall not:

(1) Require or demand sexual relations with a client incident to or as a condition of any professional representation; or

(2) Employ coercion, intimidation, or undue influence in entering into sexual relations with a client; or

(3) Continue representation of a client with whom the member has sexual relations if such sexual relations cause the member to perform legal services incompetently in violation of rule 3-110.

So if I'm reading this correctly, having sex with a client is not a per se violation of the rules. You can have sex with all the clients you want, as long as it's not a condition of your representation, everyone freely consents, and it doesn't affect your, uh, performance.

It's true we have the toughest bar exam in the nation. But membership has its privileges.

10 Sep 05