Attorney Continuing Legal Education

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1 Attorney Continuing Legal Education Avoiding and Resolving Conflicts of Interest Presented By: Scott B. Toban, Esq. Real Estate Institute (800)

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3 Avoiding and Resolving Conflicts of Interest Online Presentation Section 1 Classroom Materials Section 2 Illinois Rules of Professional Conduct of 2010 Effective January 1, 2010

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5 Section 1 Classroom Materials

6 Conflicts of Interest 2010 Real Estate Institute Continuing Legal Education Division 1 Lawyer Governance Loyalty Independent Judgment ARDC Annual Report Classification of Charges Docketed in 2008 by Violation Alleged, include: Neglect 2,566 Failing to communicate with client, including the basis of a fee 1,280 Excessive or improper fees 824 Fraudulent or deceptive activity 703 Improper trial conduct 469 Improper management of client/third party funds 358 Conduct prejudicial to administration of justice 357 Filing frivolous or non-meritorious claims 269 Conflict of Interest 204 3

7 2008 ARDC Annual Report Of the 204 charges related to Conflicts of Interest, most related to three specific types: Concurrent Conflicts (144 docketed charges) Successive Conflicts (28 docketed charges) Improper Business Transaction with Client (15 docketed charges) Separately, there were 47 docketed charges for failing to preserve client confidences or secrets ARDC Annual Report In 2008, 27 of 124 (22%) disciplinary complaints filed by the ARDC Administrator before the Hearing Board contained allegations of a conflict of interest. 14 of those allegations dealt with concurrent conflicts of interest. 5 New 2010 Illinois Rules of Professional Conduct Adopted by the Illinois Supreme Court on July 1, 2009 Effective January 1, 2010 New Rules Updates and Changes to Rules Comments to every Rule 6

8 New 2010 Illinois Rules of Professional Conduct A Rule s Comments explain and illustrate the meaning and purpose of that Rule. One Rule we ll discuss today has 35 individual Comments, covering just less than 9 full single-spaced printed pages! Paragraph [21] of the Preamble and Scope to the new Rules provides: The Comments are intended as guides to interpretation, but the text of each Rule is authoritative. 7 Hypothetical Claire Counsel is a sole practitioner licensed to practice law in the State of Illinois. Claire regularly represents XYZ Manufacturing, Inc., a corporation engaged in the production of widgets in Hometown, the Illinois town where Claire lives and conducts her practice of law. Over the past two years, Claire has represented XYZ in the following matters, among others: 8 Hypothetical Defended XYZ in litigation brought by various individuals claiming that emissions from one of XYZ s Hometown production plants had caused physical harm to those individuals. Advising XYZ regarding various ongoing employment matters involving employee benefits and workers compensation issues. Represented XYZ in its acquisition of two manufacturing plants in Hometown. 9

9 Hypothetical One day, Claire is approached by Charles CEO of Community Organization, Inc., a nonprofit entity based in Hometown. CEO would like to engage Claire to represent Community Organization Inc. in a lawsuit it desires to bring against XYZ and two other manufacturing companies located in Hometown. The lawsuit will seek to enjoin XYZ and the other companies from releasing certain emissions from their manufacturing facilities. 10 Hypothetical Can Claire represent Community in its lawsuit against XYZ? 11 Concurrent Conflicts Rule 1.7 Conflict of Interest: Current Clients (a) Except as provided in paragraph (b), a lawyer shall not represent a client if the representation involves a concurrent conflict of interest. (Emphasis added) 12

10 Concurrent Conflicts Rule 1.7, Comment [2] provides that resolution of any conflict of interest problem requires a fourstep process of analysis and action 13 Concurrent Conflicts Step One: Who is the client? It is not always easy to clearly identify the client or clients. 14 Organization as Client Rule 1.13(a) A lawyer employed or retained by an organization represents the organization acting through its duly authorized constituents. (This still reads the same as under the old rules.) New Rule 1.13, Comment [2] emphasizes that this does not mean that these constituents (e.g., directors, officers, employees) are the clients of the organization s lawyer. 15

11 Organization as Client So, when Charles CEO hires Claire in his organizational capacity representing Community, Claire is hired to represent Community, but not CEO. We can consider further issues later when we discuss confidentiality of information and representation of multiple clients. 16 Concurrent Conflicts Step Two: Determine whether a conflict of interest exists. 17 Concurrent Conflicts Rule 1.7 Conflict of Interest: Current Clients (a) (continued) A concurrent conflict of interest exists if: (1) the representation of one client will be directly adverse to another client; or (2) there is a significant risk that the representation of one or more clients will be materially limited by the lawyer s responsibilities to another client, a former client or a third person or by a personal interest of the lawyer. 18

12 Direct Adversity Is there a time when an attorney can represent opposite sides in the same matter without those parties being directly adverse? Rule 1.7(b)(3) says never in plaintiff v. defendant litigation (even with consent) Rare for transactions too, but possible (but only with consent). Direct adversity still exists when representing one side, but the other side is a client in other wholly unrelated matters. Rule 1.7, Comment [6] Loyalty prohibits Both for litigation and transactions 19 Hypothetical What if Community has no intention of suing XYZ, and only wishes to hire Claire to represent it against other manufacturers in the community? The lawsuits will focus on environmental emissions similar to those for which Claire has defended XYZ. 20 Concurrent Conflicts Rule 1.7 Conflict of Interest: Current Clients (a) Except as provided in paragraph (b), a concurrent conflict of interest exists if: (1) the representation of one client will be directly adverse to another client; or (2) there is a significant risk that the representation of one or more clients will be materially limited by the lawyer s responsibilities to another client, a former client or a third person or by a personal interest of the lawyer. 21

13 Material Limitation Rule 1.7, Comment [8] The mere possibility of subsequent harm does not itself require disclosure and consent. Critical questions: Likelihood that a difference in interests will result. Will it materially interfere with the lawyer s independent professional judgment in considering alternatives? Will it foreclose courses of action that reasonably should be pursued on behalf of the client? 22 Material Limitation Personal Interest Conflicts Rule 1.8 conflicts business transactions, financial assistance, aggregate settlements, agreements regarding the lawyer s malpractice liability Real estate lawyers acting as title insurance agents must note Comment [1] inclusion of sale of title insurance as an example of business transaction with client 23 Material Limitation Personal Interest Conflicts New Rule 1.8(j) A lawyer shall not have sexual relations with a client unless a consensual sexual relationship existed between them when the clientlawyer relationship commenced. Comment [19] to this Rule clarifies that this prohibition applies to inside counsel or outside counsel for an organization. The lawyer is prohibited from having a sexual relationship with a constituent of the organization who supervises, directs or regularly consults with that lawyer regarding the organization s legal matters. 24

14 Material Limitation Personal Interest Conflicts Where the lawyer for one party is related to another lawyer representing an adverse party, each client is entitled to know the existence and implications of relationship before the lawyer undertakes representation Possible lawyer employment with opponent (or opponent s law firm) Truly personal beliefs that conflict with representation 25 Concurrent Conflicts Step Three: Is the conflict consentable? 26 Concurrent Conflicts Rule 1.7 Conflict of Interest: Current Clients (b) Notwithstanding the existence of a concurrent conflict of interest under paragraph (a), a lawyer may represent a client if: (1) the lawyer reasonably believes that the lawyer will be able to provide competent and diligent representation to each affected client; (2) the representation is not prohibited by law; (3) the representation does not involve the assertion of a claim by one client against another client represented by the lawyer in the same litigation or other proceeding before a tribunal; and (4) each affected client gives informed consent. 27

15 Hypothetical Take a leap from reality and assume that XYZ is willing to consent to Claire representing Community in originally contemplated direct lawsuit here. Can Claire reasonably believe that she can: Competently and diligently represent Community? Continue to competently and diligently represent XYZ on other matters? 28 Rule 1.7(b)(1) Competent and Diligent Representation Rule 1.1 Competent representation requires the legal knowledge, skill, thoroughness and preparation reasonably necessary for the representation From Rule 1.1, Comment [5] Competent handling includes inquiry into and analysis of the factual and legal elements of the problem, and use of methods and procedures meeting the standards of competent practitioners. 29 Rule 1.7(b)(1) Competent and Diligent Representation Rule 1.3 A lawyer shall act with reasonable diligence and promptness in representing a client From Rule 1.3, Comment [1] A lawyer should pursue a matter on behalf of a client despite obstruction or personal inconvenience to the lawyer, and take whatever lawful ethical measures are required to vindicate a client s cause or endeavor. A lawyer must also act with commitment and dedication to the interests of the client and with zeal in advocacy upon the client s behalf. 30

16 Concurrent Conflicts Step Four: If consentable, then consult with affected clients and obtain their informed consent. 31 Informed Consent Rule 1.0(e) definition of Informed Consent: "Informed consent" denotes the agreement by a person to a proposed course of conduct after the lawyer has communicated adequate information and explanation about the material risks of and reasonably available alternatives to the proposed course of conduct. 32 Informed Consent What should we communicate to a party in order to obtain its informed consent? See Rule 1.0, Comment [6] and Rule 1.7, Comments [18] and [19]: A lawyer must make reasonable efforts to ensure that each of the affected clients are aware of relevant circumstances and the material and foreseeable ways that the conflict could have adverse effects on the interests of that client. The parties must possess information reasonably adequate to make an informed decision Disclosure of facts and circumstances Explanation informing of material advantages and disadvantages of proposed course of conduct Discussion of options and alternatives It may be appropriate to advise the parties to seek the advice of counsel 33

17 Informed Consent More from Rule 1.7, Comment [6]: Lawyer need not inform party of facts or implications already known to that party; but, then the lawyer assumes risk that the party is inadequately informed and the consent invalid. In considering adequacy of disclosure, consider: Is the party experienced in legal matters generally and in making these types of decisions? Is the party independently represented by counsel in giving the consent? If so, assumed to be informed. 34 Multiple Clients Common representation may present the most difficult circumstances When representing multiple clients in a single matter, information disclosed must include the implications of the common representation: Loyalty Confidentiality Attorney-client privilege What are the advantages and risks? 35 Consent and Writing Illinois Rule 1.7(b)(4) differs from the Model Rule: A lawyer may represent a client if: (4) each affected client gives informed consent, confirmed in writing. 36

18 Consent and Writing The model rule requires waivers of conflicts (i.e., client consents) to be in writing. That would be a significant change from the current Illinois rule. Although written conflict waivers are clearly desirable in many situations, requiring written consent in every situation as a matter of discipline is both unnecessary and inappropriate. Often, the conflict issues are clear, the affected clients understand the issues, and the matter is uncomplicated. The need for a consent may arise unexpectedly and without notice in the midst of a transaction or other matter. In such cases, requiring a writing merely adds unnecessary delay and expense, and elevates technicality over the substantive question whether consent was given. Moreover, subjecting a lawyer to potential discipline, disqualification, and malpractice liability for want of a writing--when it may be entirely clear that the consent was in fact given--is not reasonable. Accordingly, the Committee recommends that the rule and comments be revised to eliminate the requirement that conflict waivers be in writing. Source: Revised Final Report, ISBA/CBA Joint Committee on Ethics 2000, January 8, 2004 (Corrected April 1, 2004) 37 Consent and Writing Model Rule 1.7 Comment 20 was similarly omitted in Illinois: Consent Confirmed in Writing [20] Paragraph (b) requires the lawyer to obtain the informed consent of the client, confirmed in writing. Such a writing may consist of a document executed by the client or one that the lawyer promptly records and transmits to the client following an oral consent. See Rule 1.0(b). See also Rule 1.0(n) (writing includes electronic transmission). If it is not feasible to obtain or transmit the writing at the time the client gives informed consent, then the lawyer must obtain or transmit it within a reasonable time thereafter. See Rule 1.0(b). The requirement of a writing does not supplant the need in most cases for the lawyer to talk with the client, to explain the risks and advantages, if any, of representation burdened with a conflict of interest, as well as reasonably available alternatives, and to afford the client a reasonable opportunity to consider the risks and alternatives and to raise questions and concerns. Rather, the writing is required in order to impress upon clients the seriousness of the decision the client is being asked to make and to avoid disputes or ambiguities that might later occur in the absence of a writing. (Emphasis added) 38 Consent and Writing Do you agree with the ISBA/CBA Joint Committee (and by extension, the Illinois Supreme Court)? Setting aside any lack of disciplinary consequences in Illinois, should Claire obtain XYZ s conflict waiver without providing written disclosure and requiring the client s signed consent? Would you? 39

19 Hypothetical Advance Waiver What if Claire had drafted an engagement letter upon each individual representation of XYZ where XYZ consented, in advance, to future conflicts of interest? See Rule 1.7, Comment [22] Consent to Future Conflict. Has the client truly given its informed consent? Requires comprehensive explanation of future representations and actual and reasonably foreseeable adverse consequences Experienced user of legal services is more likely to understand the risks (especially if independently represented) 40 Hypothetical Returning to our original scenario with Community seeking to hire Claire in its suit against XYZ, does anything change if Claire formerly represented XYZ, but no longer represents the company? What if a real estate company would like to hire Claire for representation in a transaction selling a building to XYZ? 41 Former Client Rule 1.9 Duties To Former Clients (a) A lawyer who has formerly represented a client in a matter shall not thereafter represent another person in the same or a substantially related matter in which that person s interests are materially adverse to the interests of the former client unless the former client gives informed consent. 42

20 Former Client Rule 1.9, Comment [3] Matters are substantially related if: They involve the same transaction or dispute; or There is substantial risk that confidential information would materially advance the client s position in the subsequent matter So, what information did Claire learn when she represented XYZ? Also consider, what would ordinarily be learned? Is that information still relevant? 43 Hypothetical Now assume that Claire has been practicing as a sole practitioner, but she would like to bring in a partner. Smith has been practicing at another law firm that has been representing Community in its lawsuit against XYZ. Can Claire bring Smith into the firm to help her represent XYZ? 44 Former Client Rule 1.9(b) Duties To Former Clients A lawyer shall not knowingly represent a person in the same or a substantially related matter in which a firm with which the lawyer formerly was associated had previously represented a client (1) whose interests are materially adverse to that person; and (2) about whom the lawyer had acquired information protected by Rules 1.6 and 1.9(c) that is material to the matter; unless the former client gives informed consent. 45

21 Former Client Rule 1.9, Comment [2] Was Smith so involved in the matter that the subsequent representation can be justly regarded as a changing of sides in the matter in question? 46 Hypothetical First case, Smith has been directly involved with the Community v. XYZ litigation. Second case, Smith has no knowledge of the Community v. XYZ litigation, but he previously represented Community in similar cases against another manufacturing company. Third case, Smith has never represented Community and has no confidential knowledge regarding the case v. XYZ. 47 Hypothetical Now, assume that upon joining Claire s firm, Smith is disqualified from representing XYZ as a result of his former firm s representation of Community. Can Claire continue to represent XYZ against Community? Does Claire need to disclose Smith s prior work or obtain XYZ s consent? 48

22 Setting the Screen Rule 1.10(e) When a lawyer becomes associated with a firm, no lawyer associated in the firm shall knowingly represent a person in a matter in which that lawyer is disqualified under Rule 1.9 unless the personally disqualified lawyer is timely screened from any participation in the matter and is apportioned no part of the fee therefrom. (Emphasis added.) 49 Setting the Screen Rule 1.10(e) allows Smith to leave his old firm and allows the new firm (Claire s firm) to be adverse to Smith s former clients, all without the former clients consent. This is true even when Smith personally represented a former client and holds material information that could be detrimental to that former client, as long as Smith is screened and receives no portion of the fee earned by Claire. Rule 1.0(k) Screened denotes the isolation of a lawyer from any participation in a matter through the timely imposition of procedures within a firm that are reasonably adequate under the circumstances to protect information that the isolated lawyer is obligated to protect under these Rules or other law. 50 Setting the Screen Rule 1.0, Comment [9] The personally disqualified lawyer should acknowledge the obligation not to communicate with any of the other lawyers in the firm with respect to the matter. Similarly, other lawyers in the firm who are working on the matter should be informed that the screening is in place and that they may not communicate with the personally disqualified lawyer with respect to the matter. 51

23 Setting the Screen Rule 1.0, Comment [10] In order to be effective, screening measures must be implemented as soon as practical after a lawyer or law firm know or reasonably should know that there is a need for screening. Additional screening measures that are appropriate for the particular matter will depend on the circumstances. 52 Setting the Screen Rule 1.10, Comment [9] Where a lawyer is screened, the lawyer is not prohibited from receiving a salary or partnership share by independent agreement, but the lawyer may not receive payment directly relating the lawyer s compensation to the fee in the matter in which the lawyer is disqualified. Adequate balance of interests: Former client s interest in protecting its confidential information Current client s interest in hiring counsel of its choice (including law firm of many years) Lawyers interests in career mobility 53 Hypothetical When Smith joins Claire s firm, it is determined that there are no conflicts causing disqualification. Smith is excited to share stories with Claire regarding his former representation of certain clients and their unique legal positions and circumstances. Should Smith be concerned about sharing any of this information with Claire? 54

24 Former Client Rule 1.9(c) Duties To Former Clients A lawyer who has formerly represented a client in a matter or whose present or former firm has formerly represented a client in a matter shall not thereafter: (1) use information relating to the representation to the disadvantage of the former client except as these Rules would permit or require with respect to a client, or when the information has become generally known; or (2) reveal information relating to the representation except as these Rules would permit or require with respect to a client. 55 Former Client Rule 1.9, Comment [7] Independent of the question of disqualification of a firm, a lawyer changing firms has a continuing duty to preserve confidentiality of information about former clients. Rule 1.9, Comment [8] A lawyer is not precluded from using generally known information about a former client when later representing another client. 56 Confidentiality Rule 1.6 definition of confidentiality: A lawyer shall not reveal information relating to the representation of a client unless: The client gives informed consent; The disclosure is impliedly authorized in order to carry out the representation; or The disclosure is permitted by Rule 1.6(b) or required by Rule 1.6(c) 57

25 Confidentiality Rule 1.6(c) Required Disclosure: A lawyer must disclose information relating to representation of a client to the extent the lawyer reasonably believes necessary to prevent reasonably certain death or substantial bodily harm. 58 Confidentiality Rule 1.6(b) Permitted Disclosure A lawyer may disclose information relating to representation of a client to the extent the lawyer reasonably believes necessary: To prevent the client from committing other crime To prevent the commission of certain fraud, or to prevent injury as a result of fraud already committed, in furtherance of which a client used the lawyer s services To secure legal advice regarding compliance with Rules of Professional Conduct 59 Confidentiality A lawyer may disclose information relating to representation of a client to the extent the lawyer reasonably believes necessary: To establish a claim or defense on behalf of the lawyer in a controversy between lawyer and client To establish defense to criminal charge or civil claim against the lawyer based upon conduct in which client was involved To respond to allegations in any proceeding concerning the lawyer s representation of the client To comply with other law or a court order 60

26 Hypothetical Now assume that Claire has been practicing with the firm Counsel and Jones, a small law firm partnership. Community does not hire Claire, but instead hires Claire s partner, Jones, for its suit against XYZ. Assuming Claire s ongoing representation of XYZ, can Jones take on the representation of Community? 61 Imputed Disqualification Rule 1.10(a) - While lawyers are associated in a firm, none of them shall knowingly represent a client when any one of them practicing alone would be prohibited from doing so by rules 1.7 or 1.9, unless the prohibition is based on a personal interest of the prohibited lawyer and does not present a significant risk of materially limiting the representation of the client by the remaining lawyers in the firm. 62 Hypothetical Now assume the opposite scenario: Claire has been partnered with Jones, but Jones leaves the firm. Two years ago, during the time that Jones was Claire s partner, Jones represented Community. Can Claire now represent XYZ v. Community? 63

27 From the Opposite Perspective Rule 1.10(b) When a lawyer has terminated an association with a firm, the firm is not prohibited from thereafter representing a person with interests materially adverse to those of a client represented by the formerly associated lawyer and not currently represented by the firm, unless: (1) the matter is the same or substantially related to that in which the formerly associated lawyer represented the client; and (2) any lawyer remaining in the firm has information protected by Rules 1.6 and Rule 1.9(c) that is material to the matter. 64 From the Opposite Perspective So: Is the Community v. XYZ matter substantially related to the matter in which Jones represented Community? Even if so, Claire can still represent XYZ if she (and each other lawyer in her firm) has no information relating to the prior representation of Community that is material to the Community v. XYZ litigation. 65 Waiver of Imputed Disqualification Rule 1.10(c) A disqualification prescribed by Rule 1.10 may be waived by the affected client under the conditions stated in Rule 1.7. So, waiver is permitted, but the lawyer should engage in the same four-step process as under Rule

28 Hypothetical Let s start over and assume that Claire has never represented XYZ. However, a few years ago, Claire met with the President of XYZ to discuss the possibility of Claire representing XYZ in various capacities, including environmental litigation and real estate acquisitions. XYZ decided to hire a larger law firm to handle their needs and had no further communications with Claire. 67 Hypothetical Now, when Community approaches Claire to represent it in its lawsuit against XYZ, does Claire have any concerns under the Rules of Professional Conduct? 68 Prospective Clients New Rule 1.18 defines the prospective client as a person who discusses with a lawyer the possibility of forming a clientlawyer relationship with respect to a matter. Clearly, XYZ is a prospective client. So what? 69

29 Prospective Clients Rule 1.18(b) requires confidentiality of the information learned from the prospective client: Even when no client-lawyer relationship ensues, a lawyer who has had discussions with a prospective client shall not use or reveal information learned in the consultation, except as Rule 1.9 would permit with respect to information of a former client. 70 Prospective Clients Rule 1.18(c) prohibits a lawyer (or any other lawyer in that same firm) from representing a client with interests materially adverse to those of a prospective client in the same or a substantially related matter if a lawyer received information from the prospective client that could be significantly harmful to that person in the matter. Except 71 Prospective Clients Under Rule 1.18(d), representation will be permissible if either: Both the client and the prospective client have given informed consent; or The lawyer who received the information took reasonable measures to avoid exposure to more disqualifying information than was reasonably necessary to determine whether to represent the prospective client; and the lawyer is timely screened and apportioned no part of the fee. (i.e., see Rule 1.10(e)) 72

30 Prospective Clients So, Claire s ability to represent Community will depend on the specific information learned from Community. If a sole practitioner, she can only avoid disqualification through informed consent. If in a firm, she may be able to screen herself from the representation without consent. 73 Prospective Clients Rule 1.18, Comment [5] states that a lawyer may condition conversations with a prospective client on the person s informed consent that the lawyer will not be prohibited form future representation or even subsequent use of information. 74 Other Conflicts Rules Rule 1.11 Former and current government officers and employees Rule 1.12 Former judges, arbitrators, mediators or other third-party neutrals Rule 1.13 Organization as client Rule 1.14 Clients with diminished capacity 75

31 Conflicts of Interest Real Estate Institute Continuing Legal Education Division 76

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33 Section 2 Illinois Rules of Professional Conduct of 2010 Effective January 1, 2010

34 M.R IN THE SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF ILLINOIS Order entered July 1, Effective January 1, 2010, the provisions of the Illinois Rules of Professional Conduct will be repealed and replaced by the following Illinois Rules of Professional Conduct of ARTICLE VIII. ILLINOIS RULES OF PROFESSIONAL CONDUCT OF 2010 Preamble: a Lawyer s Responsibilities [1] A lawyer, as a member of the legal profession, is a representative of clients, an officer of the legal system and a public citizen having special responsibility for the quality of justice. [2] As a representative of clients, a lawyer performs various functions. As advisor, a lawyer provides a client with an informed understanding of the client s legal rights and obligations and explains their practical implications. As advocate, a lawyer zealously asserts the client s position under the rules of the adversary system. As negotiator, a lawyer seeks a result advantageous to the client but consistent with requirements of honest dealings with others. As an evaluator, a lawyer acts by examining a client s legal affairs and reporting about them to the client or to others. [3] In addition to these representational functions, a lawyer may serve as a thirdparty neutral, a nonrepresentational role helping the parties to resolve a dispute or other matter. Some of these Rules apply directly to lawyers who are or have served as third-party neutrals. See, e.g., Rules 1.12 and 2.4. In addition, there are Rules that apply to lawyers who are not active in the practice of law or to practicing lawyers even when they are acting in a nonprofessional capacity. For example, a lawyer who commits fraud in the conduct of a business is subject to discipline for engaging in conduct involving dishonesty, fraud, deceit or misrepresentation. See Rule 8.4. [4] In all professional functions a lawyer should be competent, prompt and diligent. A lawyer should maintain communication with a client concerning the

35 representation. A lawyer should keep in confidence information relating to representation of a client except so far as disclosure is required or permitted by the Rules of Professional Conduct or other law. [5] A lawyer s conduct should conform to the requirements of the law, both in professional service to clients and in the lawyer s business and personal affairs. A lawyer should use the law s procedures only for legitimate purposes and not to harass or intimidate others. A lawyer should demonstrate respect for the legal system and for those who serve it, including judges, other lawyers and public officials. While it is a lawyer s duty, when necessary, to challenge the rectitude of official action, it is also a lawyer s duty to uphold legal process. [6] As a public citizen, a lawyer should seek improvement of the law, access to the legal system, the administration of justice and the quality of service rendered by the legal profession. As a member of a learned profession, a lawyer should cultivate knowledge of the law beyond its use for clients, employ that knowledge in reform of the law and work to strengthen legal education. In addition, a lawyer should further the public s understanding of and confidence in the rule of law and the justice system because legal institutions in a constitutional democracy depend on popular participation and support to maintain their authority. [6A] It is also the responsibility of those licensed as officers of the court to use their training, experience, and skills to provide services in the public interest for which compensation may not be available. It is the responsibility of those who manage law firms to create an environment that is hospitable to the rendering of a reasonable amount of uncompensated service by lawyers practicing in that firm. Service in the public interest may take many forms. These include but are not limited to pro bono representation of persons unable to pay for legal services and assistance in the organized bar s efforts at law reform. An individual lawyer s efforts in these areas is evidence of the lawyer s good character and fitness to practice law, and the efforts of the bar as a whole are essential to the bar s maintenance of professionalism. To help monitor and quantify the extent of these activities, and to encourage an increase in the delivery of legal services to persons of limited means, Illinois Supreme Court Rule 756(f) requires disclosure with each lawyer s annual registration with the Illinois Attorney Registration and Disciplinary Commission of the approximate amount of his or her pro bono legal service and the approximate amount of qualified monetary contributions. See also Committee Comment (June 14, 2006) to Illinois Supreme Court Rule 756(f). [6B] The absence from the Illinois Rules of a counterpart to ABA Model Rule 6.1 regarding pro bono and public service should not be interpreted as limiting the responsibility of lawyers to render uncompensated service in the public interest. Rather, the rationale is that this responsibility is not appropriate for disciplinary rules because it is not possible to articulate an appropriate disciplinary standard regarding pro bono and public service. [7] Many of a lawyer s professional responsibilities are prescribed in the Rules -2-

36 of Professional Conduct, as well as substantive and procedural law. However, a lawyer is also guided by personal conscience and the approbation of professional peers. A lawyer should strive to attain the highest level of skill, to improve the law and the legal profession and to exemplify the legal profession s ideals of public service. [8] A lawyer s responsibilities as a representative of clients, an officer of the legal system and a public citizen are usually harmonious. Thus, when an opposing party is well represented, a lawyer can be a zealous advocate on behalf of a client and at the same time assume that justice is being done. So also, a lawyer can be sure that preserving client confidences ordinarily serves the public interest because people are more likely to seek legal advice, and thereby heed their legal obligations, when they know their communications will be private. [9] In the nature of law practice, however, conflicting responsibilities are encountered. Virtually all difficult ethical problems arise from conflict between a lawyer s responsibilities to clients, to the legal system and to the lawyer s own interest in remaining an ethical person while earning a satisfactory living. The Rules of Professional Conduct often prescribe terms for resolving such conflicts. Within the framework of these Rules, however, many difficult issues of professional discretion can arise. Such issues must be resolved through the exercise of sensitive professional and moral judgment guided by the basic principles underlying the Rules. These principles include the lawyer s obligation zealously to protect and pursue a client s legitimate interests, within the bounds of the law, while maintaining a professional, courteous and civil attitude toward all persons involved in the legal system. [10] The legal profession is largely self-governing. Although other professions also have been granted powers of self-government, the legal profession is unique in this respect because of the close relationship between the profession and the processes of government and law enforcement. This connection is manifested in the fact that ultimate authority over the legal profession is vested largely in the courts. [11] To the extent that lawyers meet the obligations of their professional calling, the occasion for government regulation is obviated. Self-regulation also helps maintain the legal profession s independence from government domination. An independent legal profession is an important force in preserving government under law, for abuse of legal authority is more readily challenged by a profession whose members are not dependent on government for the right to practice. [12] The legal profession s relative autonomy carries with it special responsibilities of self-government. The profession has a responsibility to assure that its regulations are conceived in the public interest and not in furtherance of parochial or self-interested concerns of the bar. Every lawyer is responsible for observance of the Rules of Professional Conduct. A lawyer should also aid in securing their observance by other lawyers. Neglect of these responsibilities compromises the independence of the profession and the public interest which it serves. -3-

37 [13] Lawyers play a vital role in the preservation of society. The fulfillment of this role requires an understanding by lawyers of their relationship to our legal system. The Rules of Professional Conduct, when properly applied, serve to define that relationship. SCOPE [14] The Rules of Professional Conduct are rules of reason. They should be interpreted with reference to the purposes of legal representation and of the law itself. Some of the Rules are imperatives, cast in the terms shall or shall not. These define proper conduct for purposes of professional discipline. Others, generally cast in the term may, are permissive and define areas under the Rules in which the lawyer has discretion to exercise professional judgment. No disciplinary action should be taken when the lawyer chooses not to act or acts within the bounds of such discretion. Other Rules define the nature of relationships between the lawyer and others. The Rules are thus partly obligatory and disciplinary and partly constitutive and descriptive in that they define a lawyer s professional role. Many of the Comments use the term should. Comments and the Preamble and Scope do not add obligations to the Rules but provide guidance for practicing in compliance with the Rules. [15] The Rules presuppose a larger legal context shaping the lawyer s role. That context includes court rules and statutes relating to matters of licensure, laws defining specific obligations of lawyers and substantive and procedural law in general. The Comments are sometimes used to alert lawyers to their responsibilities under such other law. [16] Compliance with the Rules, as with all law in an open society, depends primarily upon understanding and voluntary compliance, secondarily upon reinforcement by peer and public opinion and finally, when necessary, upon enforcement through disciplinary proceedings. The Rules do not, however, exhaust the moral and ethical considerations that should inform a lawyer, for no worthwhile human activity can be completely defined by legal rules. The Rules simply provide a framework for the ethical practice of law. [17] Furthermore, for purposes of determining the lawyer s authority and responsibility, principles of substantive law external to these Rules determine whether a client-lawyer relationship exists. Most of the duties flowing from the client-lawyer relationship attach only after the client has requested the lawyer to render legal services and the lawyer has agreed to do so. But there are some duties, such as that of confidentiality under Rule 1.6, that attach when the lawyer agrees to consider whether a client-lawyer relationship shall be established. See Rule Whether a client-lawyer relationship exists for any specific purpose can depend on the circumstances and may be a question of fact. [18] Under various legal provisions, including constitutional, statutory and common law, the responsibilities of government lawyers may include authority -4-

38 concerning legal matters that ordinarily reposes in the client in private client-lawyer relationships. For example, a lawyer for a government agency may have authority on behalf of the government to decide upon settlement or whether to appeal from an adverse judgment. Such authority in various respects is generally vested in the attorney general and the state s attorney in state government, and their federal counterparts, and the same may be true of other government law officers. Also, lawyers under the supervision of these officers may be authorized to represent several government agencies in intragovernmental legal controversies in circumstances where a private lawyer could not represent multiple private clients. These Rules do not abrogate any such authority. [19] Failure to comply with an obligation or prohibition imposed by a Rule is a basis for invoking the disciplinary process. The Rules presuppose that disciplinary assessment of a lawyer s conduct will be made on the basis of the facts and circumstances as they existed at the time of the conduct in question and in recognition of the fact that a lawyer often has to act upon uncertain or incomplete evidence of the situation. Moreover, the Rules presuppose that whether or not discipline should be imposed for a violation, and the severity of a sanction, depend on all the circumstances, such as the willfulness and seriousness of the violation, extenuating factors and whether there have been previous violations. [20] Violation of a Rule should not itself give rise to a cause of action against a lawyer nor should it create any presumption in such a case that a legal duty has been breached. In addition, violation of a Rule does not necessarily warrant any other nondisciplinary remedy, such as disqualification of a lawyer in pending litigation. The Rules are designed to provide guidance to lawyers and to provide a structure for regulating conduct through disciplinary agencies. They are not designed to be a basis for civil liability. Furthermore, the purpose of the Rules can be subverted when they are invoked by opposing parties as procedural weapons. The fact that a Rule is a just basis for a lawyer s self-assessment, or for sanctioning a lawyer under the administration of a disciplinary authority, does not imply that an antagonist in a collateral proceeding or transaction has standing to seek enforcement of the Rule. Nevertheless, since the Rules do establish standards of conduct by lawyers, a lawyer s violation of a Rule may be evidence of breach of the applicable standard of conduct. [21] The Comment accompanying each Rule explains and illustrates the meaning and purpose of the Rule. The Preamble and this note on Scope provide general orientation and are instructive and not directive. The Comments are intended as guides to interpretation, but the text of each Rule is authoritative. RULE 1.0: TERMINOLOGY -5-

39 (a) Belief or believes denotes that the person involved actually supposed the fact in question to be true. A person s belief may be inferred from circumstances. (b) Confirmed in writing, when used in reference to the informed consent of a person, denotes informed consent that is given in writing by the person or a writing that a lawyer promptly transmits to the person confirming an oral informed consent. See paragraph (e) for the definition of informed consent. If it is not feasible to obtain or transmit the writing at the time the person gives informed consent, then the lawyer must obtain or transmit it within a reasonable time thereafter. (c) Firm or law firm denotes a lawyer or lawyers in a law partnership, professional corporation, sole proprietorship or other association authorized to practice law; or lawyers employed in a legal services organization or the legal department of a corporation or other organization. (d) Fraud or fraudulent denotes conduct that is fraudulent under the substantive or procedural law of the applicable jurisdiction and has a purpose to deceive. (e) Informed consent denotes the agreement by a person to a proposed course of conduct after the lawyer has communicated adequate information and explanation about the material risks of and reasonably available alternatives to the proposed course of conduct. (f) Knowingly, known, or knows denotes actual knowledge of the fact in question. A person s knowledge may be inferred from circumstances. (g) Partner denotes a member of a partnership, a shareholder in a law firm organized as a professional corporation, or a member of an association authorized to practice law. (h) Reasonable or reasonably when used in relation to conduct by a lawyer denotes the conduct of a reasonably prudent and competent lawyer. (i) Reasonable belief or reasonably believes when used in reference to a lawyer denotes that the lawyer believes the matter in question and that the circumstances are such that the belief is reasonable. (j) Reasonably should know when used in reference to a lawyer denotes that a lawyer of reasonable prudence and competence would ascertain the matter in question. (k) Screened denotes the isolation of a lawyer from any participation in a matter through the timely imposition of procedures within a firm that are reasonably adequate under the circumstances to protect information that the isolated lawyer is obligated to protect under these Rules or other law. (l) Substantial when used in reference to degree or extent denotes a material matter of clear and weighty importance. (m) Tribunal denotes a court, an arbitrator in a binding arbitration proceeding or a legislative body, administrative agency or other body acting in an adjudicative -6-

40 capacity. A legislative body, administrative agency or other body acts in an adjudicative capacity when a neutral official, after the presentation of evidence or legal argument by a party or parties, will render a binding legal judgment directly affecting a party s interests in a particular matter. (n) Writing or written denotes a tangible or electronic record of a communication or representation, including handwriting, typewriting, printing, photostating, photography, audio or video recording and . A signed writing includes an electronic sound, symbol or process attached to or logically associated with a writing and executed or adopted by a person with the intent to sign the writing. Comment Confirmed in Writing [1] If it is not feasible to obtain or transmit a written confirmation, if required, at the time the client gives informed consent, then the lawyer must obtain or transmit it within a reasonable time thereafter. If a lawyer has obtained a client s informed consent, and written confirmation is required, the lawyer may act in reliance on that consent so long as it is confirmed in writing within a reasonable time thereafter. Firm [2] Whether two or more lawyers constitute a firm within paragraph (c) can depend on the specific facts. For example, two practitioners who share office space and occasionally consult or assist each other ordinarily would not be regarded as constituting a firm. However, if they present themselves to the public in a way that suggests that they are a firm or conduct themselves as a firm, they should be regarded as a firm for purposes of the Rules. The terms of any formal agreement between associated lawyers are relevant in determining whether they are a firm, as is the fact that they have mutual access to information concerning the clients they serve. Furthermore, it is relevant in doubtful cases to consider the underlying purpose of the Rule that is involved. A group of lawyers could be regarded as a firm for purposes of the Rule that the same lawyer should not represent opposing parties in litigation, while it might not be so regarded for purposes of the Rule that information acquired by one lawyer is attributed to another. [3] With respect to the law department of an organization, including the government, there is ordinarily no question that the members of the department constitute a firm within the meaning of the Rules of Professional Conduct. There can be uncertainty, however, as to the identity of the client. For example, it may not be clear whether the law department of a corporation represents a subsidiary or an affiliated corporation, as well as the corporation by which the members of the -7-

41 department are directly employed. A similar question can arise concerning an unincorporated association and its local affiliates. [4] Similar questions can also arise with respect to lawyers in legal aid and legal services organizations. Depending upon the structure of the organization, the entire organization or different components of it may constitute a firm or firms for purposes of these Rules. Fraud [5] When used in these Rules, the terms fraud or fraudulent refer to conduct that is characterized as such under the substantive or procedural law of the applicable jurisdiction and has a purpose to deceive. This does not include merely negligent misrepresentation or negligent failure to apprise another of relevant information. For purposes of these Rules, it is not necessary that anyone has suffered damages or relied on the misrepresentation or failure to inform. Informed Consent [6] Many of the Rules of Professional Conduct require the lawyer to obtain the informed consent of a client or other person (e.g., a former client or, under certain circumstances, a prospective client) before accepting or continuing representation or pursuing a course of conduct. See, e.g., Rules 1.2(c), 1.6(a) and 1.7(b). The communication necessary to obtain such consent will vary according to the Rule involved and the circumstances giving rise to the need to obtain informed consent. The lawyer must make reasonable efforts to ensure that the client or other person possesses information reasonably adequate to make an informed decision. Ordinarily, this will require communication that includes a disclosure of the facts and circumstances giving rise to the situation, any explanation reasonably necessary to inform the client or other person of the material advantages and disadvantages of the proposed course of conduct and a discussion of the client s or other person s options and alternatives. In some circumstances it may be appropriate for a lawyer to advise a client or other person to seek the advice of other counsel. A lawyer need not inform a client or other person of facts or implications already known to the client or other person; nevertheless, a lawyer who does not personally inform the client or other person assumes the risk that the client or other person is inadequately informed and the consent is invalid. In determining whether the information and explanation provided are reasonably adequate, relevant factors include whether the client or other person is experienced in legal matters generally and in making decisions of the type involved, and whether the client or other person is independently represented by other counsel in giving the consent. Normally, such persons need less information and explanation than others, and generally a client or other person who is independently represented by other counsel in giving the consent should be assumed to have given informed consent. -8-