What conditions must be met for fee splitting to be permissible among attorneys in California?

The correct answer highlights that the total fee must not be unconscionable for fee splitting to be permissible among attorneys in California. This principle is grounded in the California Rules of Professional Conduct, which prohibits attorneys from charging or collecting fees that are unconscionable. Therefore, any arrangement for splitting fees must ensure that the overall fee remains reasonable and justifiable based on the services rendered.

Permitting fee splitting under these conditions helps maintain ethical standards within the legal profession, ensuring that clients are not charged abusive or excessive fees. Additionally, while other elements such as the nature of the agreement between attorneys or client consent are important, they serve to ensure transparency and fairness, with the key consideration being the reasonableness of the total fee charged.

Understanding these guidelines helps attorneys navigate compensation arrangements responsibly while protecting client interests and upholding the integrity of the legal profession.