Lawyers often look forward to their next client and their next case. It’s exciting to meet new people and learn about their legal needs. However, in the rush to entertain a new business opportunity, proper conflict checks are sometimes neglected.
Neglecting conflict checks can lead to an adverse outcome for both a client and their lawyer. Here are seven conflict checks tips for
Starting off the new year, we have some exciting news. At Lockton Affinity, we have built an extensive network of carrier partners who are attentive to the evolving concerns and needs of today’s legal professionals, among them, Swiss Re. We are pleased to announce that Swiss Re Corporate Solutions is now offering Swiss Re policyholders access to a new risk management and
On June 29, 2023, the case of Students for Fair Admissions, Inc. v. President and Fellows of Harvard College culminated in a landmark ruling by the U.S. Supreme Court, which held that colleges and universities can no longer take race into consideration as a specific basis for granting admission.1 It’s a decision that will have lasting impact, yet it is not the
Most lawyers don’t have a crystal ball sitting on their desk. But every lawyer should know the signs that suggest something might be off about a client and understand their duty to investigate under the applicable ethics guidelines.
Unfortunately, some individuals do engage with legal professionals to defraud institutions, commit crimes or launder money. Lawyers are held to high standards and the consequences
Like many attorneys, there may be times where you routinely include fee shifting provisions in your attorney-client retainer agreements. However, these agreements may not be appropriate in every case or for every law firm. Before you proceed, take time to understand the benefits and risks a fee shifting provision may entail.
Fee shifting provisions are generally intended to help
When it’s practiced consistently, good client screening can reduce the risk of engaging in representation with an undesirable client or on a matter inconsistent with the firm’s areas of expertise. No firm wants to get bogged down chasing unpaid bills or trying to attend to the needs of a high-maintenance client.
With a well-developed initial client screening process, you can help avoid potential
The start of a new year is the perfect time to reflect on the wins and losses of the last year and think about how to make this year even better. Unfortunately, this year some lawyers will face a claim of legal malpractice even when no error has been made. But with the right steps, you