Emerging Issues in Legal Ethics and Professional Responsibility

The ethical responsibilities of legal practitioners are evolving alongside rapid technological, regulatory and professional change. Beyond traditional obligations relating to confidentiality and conflicts, solicitors must now address emerging challenges involving generative AI, heightened compliance requirements, stronger governance expectations, and increasing regulatory oversight. Navigating these developments requires a practical understanding of both established professional duties and the risks presented by new technologies and legislative reforms.

This practical webinar examines the emerging issues shaping legal ethics and professional responsibility in Australia. Participants will explore the application of the Legal Profession Uniform Law and the Australian Solicitors' Conduct Rules to contemporary practice, while gaining practical guidance on AI use, confidentiality, legal professional privilege, conflicts management, client engagement, AML/CTF obligations, and effective risk management strategies to uphold professional standards and minimize regulatory exposure.

Key Topics Discussed:

• Ethical obligations under the Legal Profession Uniform Law and Australian Solicitors' Conduct Rules
• Professional responsibilities when using generative AI in legal practice
• Confidentiality, legal professional privilege and information governance
• Identifying and managing conflicts of interest
• Ethical considerations in client engagement and decision-making
• AML/CTF reforms, customer due diligence and compliance obligations
• Competence, supervision and risk management in modern legal practice
• Regulatory investigations, disciplinary risks and maintaining professional standards