7. Duties to the Legal System and Profession

Question 1

What should a lawyer do if they have knowledge of another lawyer’s violation of the GRPC?

Answer 1

Inform the appropriate professional authority

This applies if the violation raises a substantial question regarding the lawyer’s honesty, trustworthiness, or fitness.

Question 2

How many hours of pro bono public service does Georgia urge lawyers to complete annually?

Answer 2

50 hours per year

This is a recommendation and not a mandate.

Question 3

Under what circumstances can a lawyer avoid an appointment to represent an indigent or unpopular client?

Answer 3

For good cause

Good cause may include inability to handle the matter competently, conflicts of interest, or unreasonably burdensome acceptance.

Question 4

What are the conditions that constitute good cause for a lawyer to avoid an appointment?

Answer 4

• The lawyer could not handle the matter competently
• There would be an improper conflict of interest
• Acceptance would be unreasonably burdensome

Question 5

What obligations does a lawyer undertake when they accept an appointment to serve as counsel?

Answer 5

All obligations to the client, including loyalty and confidentiality

This encompasses the ethical responsibilities required in client representation.