New York § 491 - 491Sharing of compensation by attorneys prohibited
Full text of New York New York Consolidated Laws § 491 — 491Sharing of compensation by attorneys prohibited, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 491. 491Sharing of compensation by attorneys prohibited
§ 491. Sharing of compensation by attorneys prohibited. 1. It shall be unlawful for any person, partnership, corporation, or association to divide with or receive from, or to agree to divide with or receive from, any attorney-at-law or group of attorneys-at-law, whether practicing in this state or elsewhere, either before or after action brought, any portion of any fee or compensation, charged or received by such attorney-at-law or any valuable consideration or reward, as an inducement for placing, or in consideration of having placed, in the hands of such attorney-at-law, or in the hands of another person, a claim or demand of any kind for the purpose of collecting such claim, or bringing an action thereon, or of representing claimant in the pursuit of any civil remedy for the recovery thereof. But this section does not apply to an agreement between attorneys and counsellors-at-law to divide between themselves the compensation to be received. 2. Any person violating any of the provisions of this section is guilty of a misdemeanor.
Source: official New York text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About New York § 491
What does New York Consolidated Laws § 491 cover?
Section 491 ("491Sharing of compensation by attorneys prohibited") is part of the New York Consolidated Laws, the codified statutory law of New York. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite New York § 491?
A common citation format is "New York Consolidated Laws § 491" (New York). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of New York law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the New York official source linked on this page or consult a licensed New York attorney.
How does New York § 491 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in New York can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in New York.