Ethics 101: Maintaining an Ethical Practice

This program is presented by Joseph A. Corsmeier, Esquire, of the Law Office of Joseph A. Corsmeier, P.A., and provides attorneys with practical guidance on essential law practice management skills, with a particular focus on ethical obligations in client relations and file management. The course examines critical aspects of legal practice including competence maintenance, conflict identification, client communication protocols, and proper file management procedures. Through a systematic review of professional responsibility requirements, participants will learn to implement effective systems for managing client relationships from intake through file closing.

Designed for solo practitioners, small firm attorneys, and lawyers transitioning to private practice, this program offers concrete strategies for maintaining ethical compliance while building efficient practice management systems. Participants will gain practical insights into avoiding common ethical pitfalls while developing sustainable protocols for file organization and client communication.

Learning Objectives:

1. Implement effective systems for maintaining competence and properly supervising legal staff while screening for potential conflicts of interest
2. Develop protocols for protecting client confidentiality and managing client communications throughout representation
3. Create comprehensive file management systems that ensure proper documentation and timely handling of case deadlines
4. Apply best practices for engagement agreements, billing procedures, and proper termination of representation including file closing procedures