Ethics
Ethics Tip 5: Navigating Ethical Dilemmas: The Urgency Of Integrity in Legal Practice
What if a client or someone accompanying your client makes a pass at you? It could be a wink, a show of flesh or some other gesture or asks you out to dinner or drinks. Its alright to go out for dinner or drinks with client. But did you detect something which says the client wants something more than a friendly solicitor and client relationship?
How do you feel? You know that you should not cultivate more than a friendly solicitor and client relationship. In the present case there was no inappropriate behavior. You know that close relationships with clients are prohibited see The Law Society of Singapore v Lee Terk Yang [2016]. Click link to read.
How would you react?
- Remain Calm: Detach yourself from the situation and focus on maintaining a professional demeanor.
- Set Boundaries: Establish clear rules upfront about communication, scope, and expectations. If a client crosses those boundaries, address it or renegotiate terms.
- Consider Termination: If a client continues to be difficult and disrespectful, evaluate whether it’s worth continuing the relationship. Sometimes, it’s better to part ways.
Remember: you are entitled to be treated with respect. Always maintain your professional demeanor. Click here to read how a light and humorous article written by the illustrious David Marshall on how he dealt with some situations.
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