Q. After testifying last month that she earned no income other than that reflected on the paystubs and tax returns we put into evidence, my client just told me that she makes extra money “under the table.” What are my duties…

Q. If I bring an action without legal or factual justification, I may get sanctioned. Does the same thing apply to Bar Counsel?

A. Yes and no.This issue arose recently in a case before the Supreme Court of Maryland. Suspended…

Raising questions “about the appearance of impropriety” on the part of its top ethics official, the Supreme Court of Maryland asked whether Bar Counsel used her official position “to undermine … a candidate in a Judicial election.”

In Attorney Grievance…

Q. My client has just been indicted on 13 counts of fraud and every reporter in town has called me for comment. Should I call them back? 

A. Before fielding their questions, ask yourself whether silence is “golden” or “prejudicial.”Warned against…

Q. As we head to the beach for a two-week vacation, my wife and kids want me to leave my cell phone behind so I won’t be distracted with client calls. Is this a good idea?

Legal Ethics on Vacation…

Q. In charging clients by the hour, aren’t we rewarded for inefficiency and penalized for expeditious resolutions? Is there a more ethical way to bill our clients for legal services?

A. Though there is nothing unethical about charging for the…