Can an attorney be disciplined for their assistant's violations of the Rules of Professional Conduct?

The correct response reflects the underlying principle that attorneys are ultimately responsible for the conduct of their employees and assistants. This accountability stems from the ethical obligations outlined in the Rules of Professional Conduct, which place a strong emphasis on a lawyer's duty to ensure that all aspects of their practice adhere to professional standards.

An attorney must supervise their assistants adequately and may face discipline if their assistants violate these rules, even if the attorney was not personally involved in the misconduct. This is particularly critical because an attorney's reputation and the integrity of the legal profession can be jeopardized by the actions of their staff.

Consequently, it is not sufficient for an attorney to claim ignorance of an assistant's actions; they must actively oversee and educate their staff on professional conduct. This reinforces the responsibility attorneys have in managing their practice and training their assistants, making them liable for ensuring compliance with the ethical standards expected of the legal profession.