2026 STATE LEGISLATION
AB 2305 (Kalra) – Prohibition Against Corporate Influence in the Practice of Law
When you hire a lawyer, the person making decisions about your case should be your lawyer – not a private equity investor looking for profit. AB 2305 prohibits private equity firms, hedge funds, and other corporate investors from directing or influencing the practice of law. The bill ensures that decisions about litigation – including case strategy, resolution, and representation – remain solely in the hands of licensed attorneys and their clients. AB 2305 closes emerging loopholes and protects the independence of the legal profession and the integrity of the justice system.
AB 2039 (Zbur) – Protecting Consumers and Strengthening Legal Ethics in California
AB 2039 is a critical measure that strengthens consumer protection and reinforces ethical accountability within California’s legal profession.
Current Issue: Government Accountability
Local governments have a fundamental duty to protect the health, safety, and rights of the communities they serve. That responsibility requires investing in strong safety standards and risk-prevention measures – even in the face of budgetary pressures. Shifting liability away from government entities undermines accountability, discourages responsible behavior, and exposes the public to preventable harm.
Attorney Accountability: Consumer Attorneys of California is committed to upholding integrity in the legal profession and opposing unlawful or unethical conduct. When bad actors exploit or defy the law, CAOC acts swiftly to protect consumers and the public. In 2025, CAOC-sponsored legislation to strengthen oversight and accountability across the legal system. Recent reforms curb misleading attorney advertising, crack down on illegal practices, and establish clear rules for litigation funding to prevent improper influence and fee-sharing. Together, these efforts reinforce public trust, protect Californians, and ensure the justice system serves people—not powerful corporations or unethical interests.
Protecting Legal Rights Is Non-Negotiable: Fiscal uncertainty and the threat of litigation must never be used as excuses to weaken long-standing legal protections. Survivors of abuse, physical injury, or psychological harm deserve a clear and fair path to justice – without arbitrary limits that deny accountability or meaningful recovery. Policies like damage caps and fee caps do not solve budget challenges; they shift the burden onto victims and erode the civil justice system. That’s why advocates and allies are united in opposing harmful tort reform and standing firm for the rights of those harmed.
