Discussion (1L): Ethical Lawyering: An Oxymoron?

National polls consistently rank lawyers as very low on the ethical/trustworthiness scale. For example, a recent Gallup Poll indicated that only 21% of respondents viewed lawyers as trustworthy, as compared to 77% who viewed physicians that way. In this seminar we will explore the roots of the view that lawyers often act unethically? Is this perception accurate? If so, why is that the case? Are there inherent aspects of (even ethical) lawyers' roles--particularly in adversarial contexts--that inevitably trigger public contempt? During each session, we will explore these and related questions through an in-depth study of a particular example of lawyers' behavior (and, at times, misbehavior). Elements used in grading: Full attendance, reading of assigned materials, and active participation. The seminar will meet four times during the Fall quarter. Class meets 5:30-7:30pm, September 20, October 4, October 18, November 1.