| The State Bar’s membership records inquiry line (415/561-8877),
which provided assistance to more than 250,000 callers last year, is no longer staffed by
a live operator. Callers seeking information about California attorneys now are directed
to member records online (MRO) at http://www.calsb.org.
Those who require information or services, such as how to change a name or address or
how to receive a certificate of standing, may select options from a voice menu.
A reduced staff in the membership office is maintaining the database in as timely a
manner as possible; the Internet site is updated continuously.
The bar’s MRO service had more than 700,000 record reads last year. Information
now includes a statement that a member does or does not have a record of discipline.
If additional information is sought, instructions are provided for sending a written
request for a certificate of standing or requesting a copy of the filing from State Bar
Court. There is a fee for these services.
The changes were made because of the bar’s near insolvency. Also shut down are the
discipline department’s complaint intake line and the ethics hotline.
Because they are self-supporting, the bar’s admissions and certification offices
continue to operate and California Bar Journal continues to publish on its regular monthly
basis. |
