This downloadable PowerPoint training resource provides an overview of the key ethical challenges for lawyers in their practice of the law including relevant duties under the Australian Solicitors’ Conduct Rules. The presentation is now available to all Practical Law Subscribers and complements the suite of exclusive PowerPoint presentations on Practical Law Australia’s In-house training centre enabling lawyers in private practice and in-house to conduct internal CPD training and upskill their business.

Ethical challenges highlighted include:

• Observing the paramount duty to the court and the administration of justice.
• Avoiding conflicts of interest.
• Creating and protecting legal professional privilege.
• Maintaining confidentiality.
• Observing ethical obligations in communications (including in the use of social media).

The resource also considers specific ethical complexities faced by in-house lawyers such as:

• Identifying the client.
• Protecting privilege.
• Legal opinion shopping.
• Requests for personal legal advice.

In addition, the resource provides helpful tips and strategies for maintaining ethical standards in day-to-day legal practice during COVID-19.

Legal practitioner presenters and attendees of this presentation may be able to claim credit towards their continuing professional development (CPD) depending on the relevant rules in their jurisdiction (Practical Law subscribers with In-house Centre access can view Toolkit, Continuing professional development (CPD)). For further information about Practical Law’s Inhouse Centre (for private practice and in-house lawyers), see https://legal.thomsonreuters.com.au/products/practical-law/in-house.aspx.

This resource was originally shared as part of the Practical Law Australia’s webinar, Practical Responses to Lawyers’ Ethical Dilemmas which is available to view on demand here.