Comments on: What should you do if your supervising attorney tells you to do something unethical?

By: M G

M G — Mon, 23 Nov 2009 18:33:50 +0000

Your question says that the letter is to the press. Why would it be unethical to give the letter to the person for whom it was intended?

Now, if there is a gag order or something pending, then no.

If its unethical, dont do it. The bar rules also give us the responsibility of reporting unethical activity. So basically, once you decide whether its unethical, you are suppossed to them report him.

By: cvq3842

cvq3842 — Mon, 23 Nov 2009 18:33:50 +0000

Given the facts, it’s not clear it’s unethical. What was the content of the letter? Was its release otherwise proper, even though there were other motives as well?

If you feel the action is unethical, you have to refuse. At bottom, your law license is more important than any job.

By: Slow Poke

Slow Poke — Mon, 23 Nov 2009 18:33:50 +0000

I have had that happen to me. I refused. I stated it was unethical and would not take part in it. — He got someone else to do it.

By: twowords

twowords — Mon, 23 Nov 2009 18:33:50 +0000

I would agree with the firs answer. Have him handle the job himself, but don’t put yourself at risk.

Would publishing this letter be considered unethical by anyone else? Do you work for a good attorney, or a cheat?

By: gauchogirl

gauchogirl — Mon, 23 Nov 2009 18:33:50 +0000

Unless there is some type of protective order or gag order involving the case, this would not be unethical. In fact, it may benefit your client, and could help with settlement posturing

You can always refuse but run the risk of losing your job.

Hopefully the letter does not have as many typos as your email!

By: Margie

Margie — Mon, 23 Nov 2009 18:33:50 +0000

If you feel that what you are being asked to do is unethical, do not do it. Explain to your supervising attorney that if he wants this letter released, he will have to do it himself, as you cannot in good conscience do it for him, and tell him why.

It is the unethical attorneys around who have given the profession the negative reputation that is the base of so many jokes. Stick to your guns. If you are fired for not doing something unethical, you have recourse through your local bar association or wage and hour department.

Good luck, and kudos for standing up for what you believe is right.

By: vbrink

vbrink — Mon, 23 Nov 2009 18:33:50 +0000

If you think it’s unethical DON’T DO IT!!!!!!

Don’t Do It.
Don’t Do It.

If it’s such a great idea he would be doing it. Don’t jeopardize your license.