Litigation and Advocacy Flashcards
What is a lawyer prevented from doing?
Bringing a frivolous claim
Assert a frivolous claim
Take a frivolous position
What does it mean for something to be frivolous?
No good faith argument under current law and changing law.
What is an exception to the standard that a lawyer cannot make a frivolous claim?
When representing a criminal defendant, can make prosecutor prove every element.
What is the standard regarding expediting litigation?
Must make a reasonable effort to expedite litigation to advance client’s legitimate interest.
Is a financial benefit a legitimate client interest?
No
What is candor to the tribunal?
Honesty when advocating before an official or body that issues binding legal judgment.
Is mediation a tribunal?
No
Is arguing in front of a government agency a tribunal?
No
What is the standard of candor in the law?
Cannot knowingly make false statements of law.
If the client’s financial benefit interest is nobel, is it a legitimate interest?
No
If an attorney acts frivolously, what are the subject to?
Sanctions and Discipline.
An attorney _____ correct unintentional material false statements.
Must
An attorney _____ disclose adverse controlling law if opponent fails to.
Must - if from controlling jurisdiction even if the other side fails to.
What are the rule regarding Candor about facts?
- Cannot knowingly make a false statement of facts.
- Must correct unintentional, material false statements
- No duty to voluntary facts.
When does the candor of facts apply?
When you argue before the court or when you submit an affidavit on your own behalf.
Does the candor of facts apply when submitting documents to the court?
No
True or False: There is no duty to volunteer facts in ex parte proceedings.
False - you must tell the judge all of the facts.
What are the rules regarding false evidence?
1) Cannot offer evidence if you know its false
2) May refuse to offer evidence you reasonably believe is false
3) If false evidence is offered, must take reasonable remedial efforts.
4) Duty to rectify continues until all proceedings and appeals are over.
What applies to the rule of false evidence?
Testimony and physical evidence.
What do you do if you represent a client if they give false testimony?
- Persuade the client not to do it.
- Consider withdrawal from the court - and must take steps to cancel effect of evidence.
- Disclose the situation to the judge.
(Any of the 3)
What trumps: Duty to tribunal or client confidentiality?
Duty to tribunal of candor.
What happens if the client insists on providing false testimony in a criminal case?
Some states allow narrative testimony where the lawyer makes a general statement and client states what they want to say.
What is the fairness standard to opposing counsel?
1) Cannot hide/tamper/falsify evidence
2) Make frivolous discovery requests
3) Advise a person not to talk to the otherside (unless its your client, their relative, or their agent)
4) Make unlawful payments to witnesses
5) Violate a court order.
What can you pay for regular witness?
Expenses for appearing in court.
Can you pay a regular witness a fee per hour for testifying?
No
Can you pay an expert fees and expenses?
Yes must be reasonable.
What is required for fairness in trials?
Cant allude to anything inadmissible.
Cannot assert personal knowledge.
Cannot state opinion about justness of cause, credibility of witness, or guilt or innocence.