Professional Responsibility

Question 1

True or False: It is the unauthorized practice of law for an out-of-state lawyer to render legal services to prepare for and participate in an ADR process if the out-of-state lawyer reasonably expects the ADR process or proceeding to take place in the Commonwealth.

Answer 1

FALSE.

Question 2

Of the minimum credit hours of continuing legal education required annually from all active members of the Virginia State Bar, at least how many credit hours must be in the area of legal ethics or professionalism?

Answer 2

Two.

Question 3

The school board passed a rule prohibiting public school students from wearing certain articles of religious significance while attending school. A group of concerned citizens asked Attorney how to challenge the constitutionality of this rule. May Attorney ethically challenge the constitutionality of the rule?

Answer 3

Yes, because a lawyer may counsel and assist a client in testing the validity or scope of a law.

Question 4

A lawyer engaged in private practice in Virginia must keep current books and records establishing compliance with the Virginia Rules of Professional Conduct governing client trust accounts and fiduciary accounts. For how many years must the lawyer keep these books and records following termination of the applicable representation or fiduciary relationship?

Answer 4

Five years.

Question 5

True or False: The Virginia Rules of Professional Conduct set forth a single definition of those activities that constitute the unauthorized practice of law.

Answer 5

FALSE.

Question 6

What percentage of a lawyer’s professional time should be devoted to pro bono publico legal services?

Answer 6

At least 2% each year.