Why You Should Attend

Lawyers in many practice areas will run into situations where a client’s diminished capacity is an issue. This program will address the challenges and ethical issues for pro bono and legal services lawyers in particular that arise when representing individuals with diminished capacity, whether because of mental illness, substance abuse or other factors. The panel will explore ethical issues that lawyers must address and offer approaches and strategies that lawyers may consider in carrying out representation in these circumstances.

What You Will Learn

• How to approach the unique confidentiality concerns that can arise when working with clients experiencing mental health, substance abuse or capacity issues
• How to manage conflicts and communications issues 
• Navigating the duty of loyalty
• Assisting clients with diminished capacity
• The faculty will use hypothetical fact patterns to illustrate how these ethical questions arise in legal services and pro bono practice settings.

Who Should Attend

Pro Bono volunteers at law firms and corporate law departments, legal aid and nonprofit attorneys, law students, solo and small firm practitioners, and social service providers working with legal services.