Case Study 1: The Defense Attorney’s Dilemma

Case Study 1: The Defense Attorney’s Dilemma

???? Scenario:

Attorney Sarah is defending a client, James, who is charged with armed robbery. During a private meeting, James confesses to Sarah that he did commit the crime, but he also provides her with a false alibi that he wants her to present in court. James insists that if Sarah does not use the false alibi, he will find another lawyer who will.

???? Ethical Dilemma:

• Sarah has a duty of confidentiality to her client, meaning she cannot reveal his confession.
• However, presenting false evidence in court is unethical and illegal.
• If she refuses to use the false alibi, her client may fire her, leaving him without legal representation.

???? Discussion Questions:

1. Should Sarah agree to present the false alibi, knowing it is untrue? Why or why not?
2. What other options does Sarah have that align with legal ethics?
3. How can she balance her duty to defend James while maintaining professional integrity?

For each case study, students must:

1. Identify the ethical issue present in the case.
2. Determine the possible courses of action the legal professional can take.
3. Evaluate the consequences of each action.
4. Make a decision on what they believe is the most ethical choice and justify their reasoning using legal ethics principles.

Case Study 1: The Defense Attorney’s Dilemma

???? Scenario:

Attorney Sarah is defending a client, James, who is charged with armed robbery. During a private meeting, James confesses to Sarah that he did commit the crime, but he also provides her with a false alibi that he wants her to present in court. James insists that if Sarah does not use the false alibi, he will find another lawyer who will.

???? Ethical Dilemma:

• Sarah has a duty of confidentiality to her client, meaning she cannot reveal his confession.
• However, presenting false evidence in court is unethical and illegal.
• If she refuses to use the false alibi, her client may fire her, leaving him without legal representation.

???? Discussion Questions:

1. Should Sarah agree to present the false alibi knowing it is untrue? Why or why not?
2. What other options does Sarah have that align with legal ethics?
3. How can she balance her duty to defend James while maintaining professional integrity?

For each case study, students must:

1. Identify the ethical issue present in the case.
2. Determine the possible courses of action the legal professional can take.
3. Evaluate the consequences of each action.
4. Make a decision on what they believe is the most ethical choice and justify their reasoning using legal ethics principles.