While most attorneys are generally aware of their personal obligations to comply with the ethical rules, attorneys who work in a law firm setting may have other obligations that arise out of a collaborative practice. Indeed, partners often work closely with associates, who themselves rely on partners for training and supervision. In this relationship, it can be difficult to determine how to respond if one attorney observes another acting contrary to the rules of professional conduct.

The Obligation to Supervise Subordinates

With the increasing pressure to reduce the costs of legal services, partners may try to utilize associates as much as possible to stay within strict budgets. Engaging more junior attorneys and staff members can be a good solution, not only because it is an effective way to manage expense, but also because it can serve as a valuable training tool. However, partners who neglect to properly supervise associates do so at their own risk as, in many jurisdictions, the ethical rules set forth explicit requirements for attorneys in a supervisory role.