Ethical Challenges for In-House Counsel: Balancing Organizational and Individual Interests

Attorneys often provide guidance to organizations through their board members, officers, and employees. However, what responsibilities does an in-house attorney have when advising clients about actions that may pose legal risks to individuals who are not clients?

Ogletree Deakins attorneys Richard Warren (shareholder, Detroit (Metro)) and Kristi Nelson Foy (shareholder, Milwaukee) will be joined by David Ellenbogen (General Counsel of Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan) to explore the relevant Model Rules of Professional Conduct that outline an attorney’s duty to the organization in these situations, including:

• Rule 1.1 (Competence), Rule 1.4 (Communications), and Rule 2.1 (Advisor)
• Rules 4.1, 4.3, and 1.13(f), which require attorneys to clarify that they do not represent these individuals personally
• Recommendations on how to effectively meet these duties and obligations

Sponsored by Ogletree Deakins