A proposal before the American Bar Association that would encourage states to consider "new approaches" in the practice of law is facing mounting opposition by some state bar leaders who say it will lead to outside investment of law firms and nonlawyers practicing law.

New York bar leaders, in particular, are seeking to lead a coalition of opposition. They've sent a letter to the ABA House of Delegates—the national bar group's main policy-making body—outlining their concerns before the delegates vote on the proposal Feb. 17 in Austin.

"We ask you to join us in opposing Resolution 115," said the letter, shared with ABA delegates Jan. 30. Signed by Stephen Younger, former president of the New York State Bar Association, and other state bar leadership, the letter warned that "Outside ownership of legal providers would present a minefield for the profession."