Partner authors article on ‘ethical duties of advocate’ for LACBA

BCLP Partner John W. Amberg authored an article published Oct. 3 in the Los Angeles County Bar Association (LACBA) monthly member newsletter which considers the ethical responsibilities of lawyers. John specifically examines a recent case in which a lawyer openly bragged about his trial victory, and how the rules of professional conduct might apply. “An ability to identify with his client and to communicate persuasively on his client’s behalf are hallmarks of a successful advocate, but the lawyer’s personal beliefs are ultimately irrelevant,” the article notes. “The lawyer is not a witness and his personal views are not on trial….Often, it is the difficult client and the seemingly hopeless case that requires the best advocacy, and effective advocacy in the hard case requires analytical detachment and an objective view, not blind belief.”

Chair of BCLP’s Ethics Committee, John is a member of LACBA’s Professional Responsibility and Ethics Committee.