Description
This CLE will focus on a brief review of current ethics trends highlighting LGBTQ+ issues impacting counsel, client, and conduct in courts, including discussion on Rule 8.4(g) of the ABA Model Rules of Professional Conduct and specific states’ interpretations of same. The CLE will also discuss challenges that members of the LGBTQ+ community face in the legal system and provide tips and guidance for all attorneys in upholding the rules of ethics while tackling these issues.
Learning Objectives:
Educate all attorneys on the history of anti-discrimination ethics rules as they relate to professional responsibility
II. Examine, at a state level, the implementation of Model Rule 8.4(g) in California, Illinois, and Colorado, and discuss challenges with said implementation, and intersectionality with other ABA and state Rules of Professional Conduct
III. Review state and U.S. Supreme Court rulings relating to issues impacting the LGBTQ+ community, including attorney failure to address clients and opposing parties with their preferred gender pronouns.
IV. Identify best ethical practices for attorney compliance with each state’s interpretation of Model Rule 8.4(g), as it relates to other attorneys, clients, witnesses, opposing parties, and personnel.
V. Review how to promote understanding of and respect towards LGBTQ+ members of the legal profession.