The bill, S.B. No. 2175, aims to amend the Penal Code regarding the prosecution of prohibited barratry and solicitation of professional employment. Key changes include the expansion of methods by which solicitation can occur, now explicitly allowing for communication through direct messages on social media platforms and other electronic means. Additionally, the bill clarifies that a person commits an offense if they provide unsolicited legal representation or advice to individuals who have not sought their services, with specific conditions outlined to prevent coercive or misleading practices.

The bill also stipulates that the new legal provisions will only apply to offenses committed on or after its effective date of September 1, 2025, ensuring that any offenses occurring prior to this date will be governed by the existing law. This transitional provision allows for a clear distinction between past and future legal standards regarding barratry and solicitation.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Penal Code 38.12 (Penal Code 38)