Handling ethics compliance issues can be one of the most difficult tasks inherent in running a law firm. Because ethical issues can be incredibly complex and because the nature of ethical issues facing law firms is constantly changing, some law firms find it helpful to seek advice from outside the firm in complying with the firm’s duties.

Although in-house counsel acts as the firm’s attorney and is an invaluable resource in handling internal ethical issues, some firms find that they can benefit from using outside assistance as well. For example, there may be some issues on which it is helpful to retain a true “neutral” outside lawyer to review or resolve an ethics issue, particularly if the in-house counsel maintains her or his own practice. Sometimes, there are difficult decisions relating to disputes among partners (such as with respect to conflicts issues) that can create deep divisions within a law firm, making the involvement of an outside lawyer a benefit.