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Model Rules of Professional Conduct

About the Model Rules

The ABA Model Rules of Professional Conduct  were adopted by the ABA House of Delegates in 1983. They serve as models for the ethics rules of most jurisdictions. Before the adoption of the Model Rules, the ABA model was the 1969 Model Code of Professional Responsibility. Preceding the Model Code were the 1908 Canons of Professional Ethics (last amended in 1963).

Discounts are available for books ordered in bulk. Contact the ABA Service Center at 1-800-285-2221 for more information.

For reprint permission please visit the ABA Reprint, Licensing and Permissions webpage for more information.

Implementation of Model Rules Changes

The Center for Professional Responsibility Policy Implementation Committee assist states in their implementation of changes to the Model Rules. Its site includes a chart on the status of each jurisdiction's review of the Rule changes.

A Legislative History

This Legislative History traces the Model Rules of Professional Conduct (Model Rules) from the appointment of the ABA Commission on Evaluation of Professional Standards (" Kutak Commission") in 1977 through the year 2013. It includes the first presentation of the Model Rules format to the American Bar Association House of Delegates, the adoption of the Model Rules, and the many amendments to the Model Rules that have been adopted or proposed through August 2013.   Purchase  

Other Links of Interest

Restatement Comparison

Multistate Professional Responsibility Exam

See the National Conference of Bar Examiners Web site.

Most Recent Changes to the Model Rules

August 2020

August 2018

August 2016

February 2016

February 2013

  • Commission on Ethics 20/20
    Commission reviewed the Model Rules in the context of advances in technology and global legal practice developments.

August 2012

  • Commission on Ethics 20/20
    Commission reviewed the Model Rules in the context of advances in technology and global legal practice developments.

August 2009

February 2009

August 2002

February 2002