The ABA rules are model rules - they provide a framework for state bars to build upon, but they aren't directly enforceable unless a state bar decides the ABA model code is their code.

The state bar of california has their own set of rules. See: http://www.calbar.ca.gov/Attorneys/Conduct-Discipline/Rules/...

Where do you see any leeway in this?

(d) A lawyer shall not practice with or in the form of a professional corporation or association authorized to practice law for a profit, if:

(1) a nonlawyer owns any interest therein, except that a fiduciary representative of the estate of a lawyer may hold the stock or interest of the lawyer for a reasonable time during administration;

(2) a nonlawyer is a corporate director or officer thereof or occupies the position of similar responsibility in any form of association other than a corporation ; or

(3) a nonlawyer has the right to direct or control the professional judgment of a lawyer.

I think the organization disclosed above fits into that exception so long as there is sufficient separation between the tech company and the law firm. Structuring the law firm as a customer of the tech company probably qualifies.

That said, I wouldn’t want to be putting my law license on the line for uncharted territory. Ethics enforcement can be really arbitrary.

There are a lot of ways to structure things that would fall into one of those exemptions.