Attorney Discipline

Stakeholders of law firms are often taken aback when they learn they are responsible both ethically and civilly for those individuals working in or for their firm, including their fellow stakeholders. A complete analysis of how and why is beyond the scope of this article. Suffice it to say, you may not be as safe as you think you are.

We often hear attorneys say, “the laws of our jurisdiction limit the liability of stakeholders or partners thereby insulating us from personal liability for the negligence of the other attorneys in the firm.” This generalization may be technically correct, but more times than not, it creates a false sense of security among firm owners which leads to complacency or inattention to the very important duty of...

Let's start with a reminder. The people who use your firm's computers, which includes portable devices such as smart phones or computer tablets, represent a significant risk not only from things like their falling prey to a phishing scam but to intentional misuse. One effective risk management tool that can help address this concern is a well-written online activity policy that is coupled with education and enforcement.

The establishment of rules regarding personal use that address such issues as personal browsing on the Internet, the use of peer-to-peer file sharing networks, personal email accounts, file downloads, and use of social media are of particular importance. Detail ownership and privacy ramifications so that everyone in the firm...

Guest blog post by

For many seniors, staying in their own home — as opposed to a nursing home or similar facility — is a priority.  Indeed, according to a Sun News article, surveys show that “aging in place is the overwhelming preference of Americans over 50.” But it can be a major challenge to find ways for seniors to continue living at home as their need for care increases. There are things that attorneys can do to help make the desire to stay at home a reality.

To carry on their activities of daily living at home, seniors need many different types of services. Depending on their physical and mental condition, they may need medical services, therapy, personal care (such as assistance with...