It’s Not Just the Fake Cases, AI Doesn’t Think Like a Lawyer
By Katie Parker
Associate Clinical Professor, USD School of Law
Author: Katelynn Robinson
Ethics in Brief: Ethical Considerations When Using Artificial Intelligence to Perform Discovery
By Alara T. Chilton
This article discusses key ethical considerations for lawyers when using artificial intelligence (AI)[i], particularly generative AI[ii] tools, to respond to discovery. Consider the following conversation between two friends who are solo-practitioners: Miguel, a consumer rights attorney incorporating AI[iii] into his practice, and Maria, a business litigation attorney who has been researching a lawyer’s ethical obligations under the Rules of Professional Conduct and the State Bar Act when using AI.
Mindful Minute: October Trick or Treat
By Koryn Sheppard
In October, the festive spirit of “trick or treat” fills the neighborhood. Beyond the candy and costumes, this playful phrase offers a reminder to enhance your mental well-being. Before the holiday season sweeps us into its whirlwind of activity, let’s explore some “tricks” for self-care and “treats” for ourselves and others.
Ethics in Brief — More Than the Minimum: Raising the Bar from Compliance to Best Practices
By Valerie Silverman Massey
The California Rules of Professional Conduct (Rules) serve as the ethical backbone of legal practice. These Rules establish the minimum standards required to avoid disciplinary action, but they are not synonymous with best practice. The distinction between compliance and excellence is subtle yet critical — especially in a profession where reputation, trust, and client outcomes hinge on more than just rule-following.
Ethics in Brief: More Than Foolish: Federal Court Awards $2.9M Sanction for Attorneys’ “Deliberate” Misrepresentations
By Katie Parker
Associate Professor, USD School of Law
Mindful Minute — Welcoming Change: Finding Your Rhythm in the Fall
By Koryn Sheppard
As we move into September, we feel a shift in the air. The long, lazy days of summer are giving way to the crisp mornings and cool, golden-lit evenings of autumn. For many, this is a time of transition. Kids are heading back to school, summer vacations are now happy memories, and the busy holiday season is still on the horizon. This period can feel a little jarring, a sudden change in pace that can leave us feeling off-balance.
An Ethical Hidden Gem of the San Diego County Bar Association
By Michael L. Crowley
Attorneys are confronted everyday with ethical dilemmas. Some we recognize, some we don’t. But the ones we recognize must be addressed and a good way to deal with it is to call the San Diego County Bar Associations (SDCBA) Ethics Hot Line.
Ethics in Brief: Ethically (and Effectively) Supervising Others
By Katie Parker
Associate Professor, USD School of Law
Mindful Minute: Rekindle Your Inner Summer Camp Kid — The Importance of Fun
By Koryn Sheppard
Remember those endless summer days of childhood? The taste of a rocket pop melting down your fingers, the tart sweetness of homemade lemonade, the distinct smell of sunscreen, and the sheer, unadulterated joy of summer camp? As adults, we often trade in those carefree days for responsibilities, deadlines, and the everyday grind. But what if we told you that embracing a little bit of that inner summer camp kid is not just nostalgic, but essential for your well-being?
Ethics in Brief: Verbum Sapienti Sat
By Edward J. McIntyre
“A word to the wise is sufficient.” Perhaps not.