Adopted June 13, 1956

QUERY

Is the use of a neon sign either outside of a building or suspended inside an office window proper?

ANSWER

A neon sign or any sign of unusual illumination, or design and size is obviously intended to attract attention and is advertising in violation of Canon 27.

Drinker’s Legal Ethics, page 231 says:

“A lawyer may not display a neon sign for a shingle. The test is whether the sign is intended and calculated to enable persons looking for a lawyer, already selected, to find him, or to attract the attention of persons who might be looking for a lawyer, although not for him.

See also Michigan Opinions 11, 14 and 33.