Attorneys, arbitrators, judicial officers, and alternative resolution providers.

California SB574 aims to update laws regarding the conduct of attorneys, arbitrators, and judicial officers in civil proceedings. The bill makes changes to existing legal codes to enhance the accountability and ethical standards of these professionals, and introduces new provisions to improve the resolution processes in civil cases.

CA SB574 is a senate bill in the California 2025-2026 Regular Session, sponsored by Tom Umberg (D), currently “Passed” since September 30, 2026.

We track 5,060 California bills this session, 43 of them sponsored by Tom Umberg.

The key recorded vote (Senate, August 31, 2026) ended 40–0 and passed.

Supporters of SB574 would argue that the bill strengthens the integrity of the legal system by ensuring that attorneys and arbitrators adhere to higher ethical standards. They would highlight that the changes will lead to fairer and more efficient civil proceedings, ultimately benefiting all parties involved.

Critics of SB574 may contend that the bill imposes unnecessary regulations on legal professionals, potentially hindering their ability to effectively represent clients. They might argue that the added bureaucracy could slow down civil proceedings and create barriers for those seeking justice.

Source: LegiScan roll call vote data.