This ethics-focused CLE program examining the professional responsibility obligations implicated in law firm sales, acquisitions, mergers, and internal transitions. The course centers on the Rules of Professional Conduct governing client protection, confidentiality, conflicts of interest, fee arrangements, supervision, and competent representation during periods of firm change.

Participants will explore the ethics rules applicable to selling and purchasing a law firm, including client notice and consent, confidentiality during negotiations, trust account and file transfer requirements, and ethical limitations on valuation and fee sharing. The program also addresses professional responsibility issues arising from growth by acquisition, internal succession planning, and start-up law firms, with particular attention to conflicts, marketing, supervision, and continuity of representation.

The course concludes with practical guidance and best practices designed to help lawyers identify ethical risks, meet CLE ethics requirements, and ensure compliance during all stages of law firm transition.