California's Rules of Professional Conduct now use the same numbering system as the ABA Model Rules — but numbering isn't substance. No state has actually adopted the Model Rules, and the differences can carry real consequences, especially when it comes to client confidentiality.

• See how a recent ABA ethics opinion on confidentiality exceptions directly conflicts with California's stricter standard under Bus. & Prof. Code § 6068(e)

• Understand the narrow scope of California's only confidentiality exception — and why "rules of reason" reasoning doesn't apply the same way here

• Get a rundown of the case law and ethics opinions that define what counts as a protected client "secret" in California

• Learn why fee-sharing, conflicts, and advertising rules are also areas where state-to-state variation is easy to miss

Fill out the form to read the full breakdown of where California's confidentiality rules diverge from ABA guidance — and how to stay on the right side of the line.