Product Description

It seems that the ink is barely dry on your law school diploma when friends and family start asking for legal help. As lawyers, we want to help, and as family members we often feel like we can’t say no. Unfortunately, what the lawyer may see as a quick favor to a loved one, can result in the lawyer being faced with a costly malpractice or disciplinary action. This issue often happens when the family member’s expectation of what the lawyer agreed to do does not match what the lawyer thought was obvious and understood or when the lawyer takes on something they do not have experience with and should not handle. While a lawyer might think their family member would never sue them, the family member may end up facing a significant loss for which they blame the lawyer.

This program discusses many of the pitfalls lawyers face when giving legal help to friends and family. It is intended to help you make considered decisions about whether to assist your family and friends with their legal matters, and if you do represent them, to do so without putting yourself in jeopardy.

Agenda & Materials

• 12:00pm - 12:05pm

  Welcome and Introduction

  Jessica G. Kelly, Esq., Freeman Mathis & Gary LLP , Boston
  
• 12:05pm - 12:20pm

  Creating ACP and Implied Attorney Client Relationships

  Jessica G. Kelly, Esq., Freeman Mathis & Gary LLP , Boston
  Heather L. LaVigne, Esq., Office of Bar Counsel, Massachusetts Board of Bar Overseers , Boston
  
• 12:20pm - 12:30pm

  Competence

  Panel
  
• 12:30pm - 12:35pm

  Limited Assistance Representations

  Panel
  
• 12:35pm - 12:45pm

  Diligence

  Panel
  
• 12:45pm - 12:55pm

  Conflicts of Interest

  Panel
  
• 12:55pm - 1:00pm

  "Ask the Experts" Q&A Session and Key Takeaways

  Panel
  

Please Note

MCLE webcasts are delivered completely online, underscoring their convenience and appeal. There are no published print materials. All written materials are available electronically only. They are posted 24 hours prior to the program and can be accessed, downloaded, or printed from your computer.

Faculty