MARYLAND STATE BAR ASSOCIATION, INC.

COMMITTEE ON ETHICS

ETHICS DOCKET NO. 1976-05

Impropriety of placing name of paralegal on letterheads

This has reference to your inquiry regarding the listing of the name of a paralegal assistant on the letterhead of your firm.

(1) DR 2-102, and particularly subsection (a) (4), prohibits the inclusion on a letterhead of the name of any person who is not a member of the Bar. This precludes the name of a paralegal, even if designated as “Legal Assistant” without the use of the word “Certified,” as stated in your letter of June 9, 1975.

(2) We do not believe that a paralegal or other staff member of a law firm who is not a member of the Bar should even sign a letter on firm stationery unless his or her status is clearly indicated beneath the signature (as, for example, “Legal Assistant,” “Librarian,” “Office Manager” etc.) and the subject matter of the letter is ministerial, involving no legal opinions or legal advice. It follows, a fortiori that the name of a non-lawyer should not be permanently printed or engraved on stationery on which legal opinions and advice will be rendered by partners or associates.

(3) We are aware that the status of paralegals is in a state of evolution and that the interpretations now in force may change. As of this date, however, we reaffirm the views heretofore expressed to you by our predecessor Committee.