Ethical issues in civil litigation most often arise not from intentional misconduct, but from routine strategic decisions made under time pressure. This CLE program examines four critical ethics challenges—and a fifth, overarching obligation—that regularly confront civil litigators in today’s practice.

The course reviews foundational principles of professional responsibility and applies them to common litigation scenarios, including the ethical limits of client witness preparation. It addresses the rapidly expanding use of artificial intelligence in civil litigation, with a focus on ethical risks related to AI-assisted research, drafting, and representations to courts and opposing parties. The program also explores ethical considerations in mediation, including duties of honesty, negotiation conduct, and communications with mediators.

The program concludes with a broader examination of professionalism and candor, emphasizing how ethical judgment, credibility, and compliance with professional standards affect litigation outcomes and long-term professional standing. Throughout the course, participants will receive practical guidance designed to help civil litigators identify ethical pitfalls, navigate evolving rules, and meet their professional responsibility obligations in an increasingly complex litigation environment.