Although the Tennessee Rules of Professional Conduct only briefly mention “zealous representation”, clients, courts, and disciplinary authorities still speak of it fondly and often expect and demand it.  This program will look at the risks lawyers face when they cross the “zealous” line with clients, third-parties, other lawyers, courts and, yes, disciplinary authorities. 

Course Schedule: 

Hour One - The QUIZ – A potpourri of the hottest topics in legal malpractice and ethics, and what you need to know to protect yourself from novel malpractice risks and ethics complaints.

Hour Two – A look at Tennessee Rules of Professional Conduct 1.3: Diligence, 3.1: Meritorious Claims and Contentions, 3.2. Expediting Litigation, 3.3: Candor Toward the Tribunal, 4-3.4: Fairness to Opposing Party and Counsel, 3.5: Impartiality and Decorum of the Tribunal, 4.1: Truthfulness in Statements to Others, 4.4: Respect for the Rights of Third Persons, and 8.4: Misconduct, and how these Rules constrain lawyers’ professional and personal conduct.

Hour Three – The Ethics and Malpractice Risk of “Zealous Representation”, continued, with an examination of real-world advocacy issues.