1. Select The Forms

There are two sets of forms to begin an arbitration. You must select the appropriate set of forms depending on whether or not you have been sued for fees.

No Lawsuit Filed [pdf]
If you have not been sued, download and complete the form “Client’s Request for Arbitration of a Fee Dispute “ following the instructions below.

A Lawsuit Filed [pdf]
If you have been sued, download and complete the form “Request for Arbitration and Stay of Proceedings” following the instructions below.

2. Completing and Filing the Forms

When you have downloaded the correct forms, fully complete the forms. Attach the appropriate documentation to the forms. Note that if you answer “yes” to questions 6, 7a, 8a, 8b, 9 or 10, you must attach a copy of the documents mentioned. Then make one copy of all the documents and forms for your records, another copy for the court if you have been sued, and one copy for the attorney. 

Evidence for the hearing need not be attached initially, but should be available for the arbitration hearing.

Mail to the KCBA office the original completed document and its attachments together with the appropriate fee. (Our address is 1675 Chester Ave., Ste. 220, Bakersfield, CA 93301) 

Send to the attorney, by regular mail, a copy of all the material you forward to KCBA. office.

3. Continuing Instructions

Once you properly submit the documents, the KCBA will mail to you a Notice of Appointment of Arbitrator. The Arbitrator will set the hearing date and send to you a Notice of Hearing Date. The hearing date, time and place show you when you and the attorney whose fees you dispute will have the opportunity to present your materials and to speak about the dispute.

Remember to consult the State Bar pamphlet mentioned above in Information that will assist you in preparing for the arbitration. To learn about preparing for the arbitration hearing, please consult the State Bar brochure we will send to you. 

If you have further questions, you may contact our office by e-mail at info@kernbar.org or by telephone at (661) 334-4700

4. Clients Right's After Arbitration