Starting Off Right

CPBO Director Eve Runyon recently joined Towers Watson & Co. for the launch of its legal department’s pro bono program. To kick off the event, Vice President, General Counsel and Secretary Kirkland Hicks shared his support of the legal department’s efforts and encouraged staff located around the globe, including the U.S., U.K., and Asia, to participate. Members of the pro bono committee, including Chair Cindy Boyle, highlighted key policies and practices of the new pro bono program. Runyon then led a program on the ethical issues relating to pro bono representation. For legal department members located in other offices, the program was made available via webcast.

During the CLE eligible presentation, Runyon discussed a number of important ethical issues related to in-house pro bono. While some pro bono-related ethical issues are universal, there are a few distinct issues for in-house programs, especially those with an international presence. By touching on a number of topics such as attorney-client relationships, conflicts of interest, and limited-scope representation, Runyon shared with the Towers Watson’s legal department many of the department’s professional responsibilities when representing pro bono clients.

An ethics program is a great way to ensure legal staff members are broadly informed about engagement in pro bono efforts. To inquire about hosting an ethics program at your legal department, please contact CPBO Director Eve Runyon.