Common Ethics Mistakes Lawyers Make with Clients and How to Avoid Them

Lawyers must be very aware of situations and circumstances where a mistake could result in prejudice to the client or exposure of the lawyer to a disciplinary complaint or legal malpractice.

Many lawyers may not fully understand the disciplinary rules regarding client representation and make ethical mistakes regarding whether to take on a client representation, continue the representation, or terminate the representation (and everything in between). This course will address some critical ethical considerations to help lawyers and legal professionals avoid making mistakes with clients.

This webinar will address the following situations and circumstances:

Client Intake, Conflicts of Interest, Client Confidentiality, Ethics, and Social Media, Supervising Non- Lawyers, Managing Client Files/Matters, Records Management and File Closing, Withdrawal/Termination of Representation, Non-engagement/Disengagement Letters, and Fees and Fee Agreements

The magnitude of these mistakes is heightened by the increased use of digital tools and internet connections in the practice of law, including the use of Zoom and other digital meeting platforms, working from home over the internet, and using Alexa and other digital devices.

Learning Objectives:

1. Identify common mistakes made by attorneys when engaging with clients

2. Avoid or minimize mistakes with clients 

3. Gain solutions and learn best practices to stop client issues before they start