CLA/CP Exam CLA/CP Professional and Ethical Responsibility Questions and Answers 3

Question 1

A paralegal receives a subpoena for client files while the supervising attorney is on vacation. What is the appropriate course of action?

Accepted Answer

Contact another attorney in the firm to handle the response

Answer

Immediately turn over all requested files to comply with the subpoena

Answer

Ignore the subpoena until the supervising attorney returns

Answer

Send the files but redact any privileged information

Question 2

A paralegal suspects that a client is providing fabricated documents to support their case. What ethical obligation does the paralegal have?

Accepted Answer

Inform the supervising attorney of the concerns about the documents

Answer

Present the documents as provided since the client is responsible for their authenticity

Answer

Report the suspicion directly to the opposing counsel

Answer

Refuse to work on the case and request reassignment

Question 3

Which scenario would most likely create a conflict of interest requiring a paralegal to be screened from a matter?

Accepted Answer

The paralegal had substantive involvement in the same matter while employed at a prior firm

Answer

The paralegal previously worked on a case involving the same area of law

Answer

The paralegal attended the same law school as opposing counsel

Answer

The paralegal is personally acquainted with a witness in the case

Question 4

Under ethical guidelines, when may a paralegal use the title 'paralegal' or 'legal assistant' on a business card?

Accepted Answer

At any time, as long as the title accurately reflects their role and does not mislead the public

Answer

Only after passing a national certification exam

Answer

Only when directly supervised by an attorney who approves the card

Answer

Never, because titles on business cards imply attorney status

Question 5

A client emails the paralegal directly, asking for an opinion on the likely outcome of their pending motion. How should the paralegal respond?

Accepted Answer

Respond that they cannot provide legal opinions and will have the attorney follow up

Answer

Provide a general prediction based on similar cases the firm has handled

Answer

Forward the email to the attorney without responding to the client

Answer

Tell the client to search online for information about similar motions

Question 6

What is the primary purpose of requiring paralegals to disclose their non-attorney status when communicating with clients, witnesses, or third parties?

Accepted Answer

To ensure the person understands they are not receiving advice from a licensed attorney

Answer

To limit the paralegal's liability in malpractice claims

Answer

To comply with the firm's internal billing requirements

Answer

To allow the paralegal to avoid responsibility for errors in communication