Document Type

Article

Publication Date

2003

First Page

513

Volume

3

Source Publication Abbreviation

Wyo. L. Rev.

Abstract

This article explores the obligations of the lawyer to the corporate client and to society. It examines both established principles and recent developments relevant to the lawyer's role.

Part II discusses some of the rules of legal ethics that provide both guidance and restraints on corporate counsel. It focuses on the lawyer's duty to provide the client with independent professional judgment and to keep the client informed about the representation. It also explores the lawyer's duty to maintain the confidentiality of client information and duties specific to representing an organizational client.

Part III explains recent developments that may affect the role of corporate counsel, including the first comprehensive revision of the ABA Model Rules of Professional Conduct since 1983 and the SEC's promulgation of rule 205 pursuant to the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

Part IV assesses the obligations of lawyers in light of the cumulative effect of the two systems: laws and ethics rules. It concludes that a system of justice based on the principle of rule of law must take account of public policy articulated by legislative and judicial authority and must make judgments based on conduct rather than the status of parties involved in legal issues.

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