Maximizing Your Value in the Attorney‑Client RelationshipCornell Course

The relationship you have with the attorney representing your organization is critical. Your communications and interactions with that attorney will be more productive for everyone if you understand exactly what the attorney wants and needs from you. In this course, you will discover ways to effectively communicate with attorneys, whether they are in house or hired from outside your company. You will consider how there are misconceptions about what attorneys need, such as the notion that everything should be in writing. You will also examine the duties associated with being a corporate representative and what your role entails when you are called to testify on behalf of your company.

Additionally, you'll explore the professional rules attorneys must comply with to ensure proper communication with the client. You'll be able to distill best practices to follow at the beginning of the attorney-client relationship that will ensure better communication throughout the relationship. Finally, you'll have the opportunity to apply this knowledge in certain situations, such as when an employee is asked to represent the company at a deposition. Ultimately, you'll have a more sophisticated appreciation of and approach to communicating and working with attorneys.