How to Be a Lawyer. Jason Mendelson

being a fiduciary, remember that not all situations involving clients mean you are a fiduciary. The biggest instance is negotiations around billing arrangements and fees. In this instance, you have no duty to the client (absent of bar ethics considerations) and are free to put your interests first.

      In addition, do not fall into the trap that you owe a duty to opposing counsel. Many junior lawyers get lulled into a state where they want to please the other side or not upset them. These conflict-avoidant attorneys need to remind themselves where their real duty rests. It still surprises us how many lawyers fall into this group.

      Finally, be careful who you become friends with. Again, perceptions matter. If you are a criminal defense attorney who regularly golfs with an assistant district attorney, realize that this perception may not be appreciated by your clients. Yes, you can claim that a good working relationship is important, but consider optics and how that might be perceived as a potential conflict.