Practice Pointer: Ethical 8

By: Jason Truitt

1. Don’t refuse to accept a plea because your client hasn’t finished paying you—your business model should not cost your client her liberty and it most likely violates the Texas Disciplinary Rules of Professional Conduct. A few hundred dollars isn’t worth a grievance;
2. Corollary to No. 1: If the representation has concluded and the client has defaulted on payments—forgive the debt. A few hundred dollars isn’t worth a grievance;
3. No snitching; [i.e. don’t reveal your colleagues confidences]
4. Don’t ex parte a judge;
5. If you see unethical conduct by a lawyer or a judge, confront it appropriately—this may mean throwing bombs, or it may mean showing some tact, but it requires action;
6. Don’t represent co-defendants;
7. Read the charge and punishment ranges to your client;
8. Don’t give immigration advice unless you know what you’re talking about; most of all never advise that a plea “won’t affect your status at all” in order to get the plea done.