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Full-Text Articles in Law
Keeping Lawyers' Houses Clean: Global Innovations To Advance Public Protection And The Integrity Of The Legal Profession, Susan Saab Fortney
Keeping Lawyers' Houses Clean: Global Innovations To Advance Public Protection And The Integrity Of The Legal Profession, Susan Saab Fortney
Faculty Scholarship
Around the globe regulators are rethinking the scope of their mandates and responsibilities. They are assuming more expansive roles rather than limiting their efforts to disciplining lawyers after misconduct occurs. This Article examines such regulatory initiatives in three areas. First, it discusses developments related to proactive management-based programs in which regulators partner with lawyers who self-assess their firms’ management systems. Data reveal that such assessments help lawyers avoid problems through developing their firms’ ethical infrastructure. When misconduct occurs, injured persons often seek monetary redress. These persons may not be able to obtain recovery unless they have suffered substantial damages to …
Leaks, Lies, And The Moonlight: Fiduciary Duties Of Associates To Their Law Firms, Susan Saab Fortney
Leaks, Lies, And The Moonlight: Fiduciary Duties Of Associates To Their Law Firms, Susan Saab Fortney
Faculty Scholarship
This symposium article examines the fiduciary duties of law firm associates. After applying agency principles to the firm-associate relationship, the article analyzes specific duties and discusses cases involving alleged breaches of fiduciary duties by associates. It explores associate duties in the current legal, organizational, and socio-technological environment in which associates practice. The article closes with observations on the importance of firm principals considering the effect of firm culture on associate attitudes and conduct.
Seeking Shelter In The Minefield Of Unintended Consequences - The Traps Of Limited Liability Law Firms, Susan Saab Fortney
Seeking Shelter In The Minefield Of Unintended Consequences - The Traps Of Limited Liability Law Firms, Susan Saab Fortney
Faculty Scholarship
This article addresses the overlooked negative consequences of law firms transitioning from a traditional partnership to a limited liability partnership or company. Part I of this article introduces the topic by providing a brief history of the development of LLCs and LLPs and noting the lack of attention given to the detrimental consequences of such firm structures. Part II reviews the forces behind the limited liability movement and the emergence of limited liability law firms. Part III surveys the statutory approaches to limiting vicarious liability in LLCs and LLPs. Part IV then examines possible internal consequences of attorneys’ practicing as …