If you practice before any of 32 state agencies and commissions or represent local governmental entities, take a close look at the newly enacted ethics-in-government legislation
That's right, young lawyer; while you might feel you know little compared to your more senior colleagues, you're fully responsible for properly applying ethical rules.
On November 21, 2002, the Illinois Supreme Court held that attorney Storment violated Illinois Rule of Professional Conduct 1.5(f) when he failed to obtain his client's written consent to a division of fees with another attorney.
The Illinois Office of the Comptroller added a provision under 2 Ill Adm Code 626, establishing an Ethics Commission (commission) under the Illinois Gift Ban Act (5 ILCS 425).
It's a common situation; a small group seeking a lawyer's help in forming a closely held business entity; that presents multiple malpractice traps for lawyers.
Governor Jim Edgar characterized Public Act 90-737, the State Gift Ban Act, as "an important step forward in the reform of campaign finance and ethics laws'' that would "improve accountability and help Illinoisans better understand the political process in our state.''
