The State Bar is not even that much help in guiding. It was once thought 5 years was sufficient for some documents but estate planning originals will have to be kept until they are needed. The Rules of Professional Conduct and State Bar Act do not specifically direct how long an attorney should keep a client's files. But rule 4-100(B)(3) requires records regarding entrusted client property and funds to be maintained five years after the last funds and property has been disbursed to the client.