HB162 Summary

• Amends Section 34-3-25 of the Alabama Code to create a civil cause of action for any person solicited by an attorney to bring a legal action for the purpose of procuring legal services.

• Allows persons to file civil actions to void contracts procured through prohibited attorney solicitation conduct and recover all fees and expenses paid under the voided contract.

• Provides additional civil remedies including a $5,000 fine per violating person, actual damages, and reasonable attorney's fees for prevailing parties.

• Permits attorneys to recover reasonable fees based on quantum meruit if they did not have actual knowledge the contract was procured through prohibited conduct and reported the misconduct as required by professional conduct rules.

• Establishes a two-year statute of limitations for civil actions tried by judge without jury, effective January 1, 2016.