Model Rules Flashcards
Are the Comments binding?
No MR 8.1
If a lawyer violates the MRs, does that mean the lawyer is liable for malpractice?
No MR 8.1
When MUST an applicant for the bar disclose a piece of information?
Only when (1) necessary to correct a known misapprehension, or (2) in response to a lawful request for information. MR 8.1
An applicant for the bar CANNOT make a __________ __________ of __________ __________.
false statement of material fact MR 8.1
Can a lawyer be subject for discipline for statements/omissions during the bar admission process?
Yes MR 8.1
If a lawyer observes another lawyer or judge violating the MRs, when MUST the lawyer report it? Is there any exception?
ONLY IF the lawyer’s/judge’s conduct “raises a substantial question as to that lawyer’s honesty, trustworthiness or fitness as a lawyer in other respects.” Yes, don’t have to report if (1) doing so would reveal privileged information, or (2) the lawyer is already involved in an assistance program for the behavior. MR 8.3
Is it a violation to assist someone else in violating the rules?
Yes MR 8.4
Is it a violation to violate the rules through someone else’s actions?
Yes MR 8.4
Does engaging in general dishonest conduct = professional misconduct under the rules?
Yes MR 8.4
Is it professional misconduct for a lawyer to commit any kind of crime?
No, only crimes re truthfulness or fitness as a lawyer. MR 8.4
Is it professional misconduct for a lawyer to imply that he can achieve certain results?
Not unless the lawyer implies that he can do so through violative means. MR 8.4
May a lawyer refuse to comply with any professional obligation?
Only if there is a good faith belief that the obligation requires breaking one of the rules. MR 8.4
T/F: A lawyer may only be subject to the rules of one jurisdiction at a time for the same conduct.
False. Can be subject to more than one jurisdiction’s rules for the same conduct. MR 8.5
If a lawyer violates the rules in connection with a matter before a certain tribunal, may he cite the rules of another jurisdiction as the rules he’s bound by?
Only if he “reasonably believed” the effect of the conduct would be felt in that other jurisdiction. Otherwise, subject to the rules of that tribunal. MR 8.5
Generally, what’s the rule of thumb for determining which jurisdiction’s rules apply?
Apply the rules of the jurisdiction in which either (1) the conduct occurred, or (2) the predominant effect of the conduct is felt. MR 8.5
What are the thee categorical instances in which confidential information can be disclosed?
Informed consent Impliedly authorized Or authorized under 1.6(b) MR 1.6
A lawyer shall not reveal information __________ ___ ___ __________ of a client unless…
relating to the representation MR 1.6
What are the seven exceptions for A-C privilege under 1.6(b)?
Prevent reasonably certain death or bodily harm Prevent client from committing crime/fraud with the lawyer’s help Prevent, mitigate or rectify injury resulting from the crime Secure legal advice about compliance with the Rules Establish a claim or defense related to the representation itself Comply with law or court order Detect or resolve conflicts of interest (unless doing so would prejudice the client) MR 1.6
What should a lawyer be careful to do when giving a hypothetical?
Make sure that the listener could not figure out confidential information from the hypo. MR 1.6
Can lawyers in the same firm share confidential information about cases they are working on? Why?
Yes, b/c it’s impliedly authorized. MR 1.6
Does the A-C privilege continue after the representation has ended?
Yes MR 1.9
What should a lawyer do if a client brings up proposed criminal activity?
CANNOT aid in the crime/fraud. MAY give legal advice as to the consequences of any proposed action, and give a good faith effort to explain applicable law. MR 1.2
Organizational client: In general, whose interests MUST a lawyer look out for in the event that a member of the organization wants to violate a law or legal obligation to the organization that is likely to result in substantial harm to the organizational client?
The interests of the organization come first. MR 1.13
Organizational client: When should a lawyer report the conduct of a constituent to a higher authority within the organization? Is this duty permissive?
IF: (1) The conduct is likely to create substantial harm for the organization (2) Warranted by the circumstances, AND (3) The lawyer doesn’t reasonably believe that reporting the conduct isn’t necessary to protect the organization’s interests No, if the above are met, the lawyer MUST report to a higher authority. MR 1.13
Organizational client: When is a lawyer able to reveal information about a constituent’s conduct beyond the organization? Is this duty permissive?
MAY reveal the information ONLY IF and to the extent reasonably necessary to protect the interests of the organization — UNLESS the conduct in question is what the lawyer was hired to investigate to begin with. Yes, this is permissive. MR 1.13
Organizational client: What should a lawyer do if he is fired for reporting the conduct of a constituent? Is this duty permissive?
Report to higher authority No, not permissive. MR 1.13
Organizational client: What should a lawyer do when talking with constituents of the organization? Is this duty permissive?
If the constituent’s interests are ADVERSE to the organization, then MUST tell them of the lawyer’s role and who he represents No, not permissive. MR 1.13
Organizational client: Can a lawyer represent the organization and any of its constituents simultaneously?
Yes, although 1.7 (concurrent representation) conflicts may still arise. MR 1.13
Organizational client: Are conversations with a constituent protected as confidential information?
Yes, but that does not mean the constituent is a “client”—the lawyer can’t disclose confidential information to the constituent.
Does “knowledge” under the Rules require actual knowledge?
No, knowledge can be inferred from the circumstances—a lawyer cannot get away with ignoring the obvious.