Q. We are thankful for the many satisfied clients who have recommended us to their friends, coworkers and relatives. To encourage more referrals, may we send them tokens of our appreciation?
A. Tokens of appreciation to loyal clients are probably fine. Rewarding them for referrals isn't.
Under Rule 7.2(c) of the Rules of Professional Conduct, an "attorney shall not give anything of value to a person for recommending the attorney's services." While other businesses may thrive on a program of incentives for new referrals, you are not soliciting gym memberships, magazine subscriptions or the sale of high-end merchandise. You are offering professional services to clients who require strong legal skills—not marketing savvy.