Multistate Professional Responsibility Exam Practice Question
Attorney Ava contributed a substantial sum to a controller’s reelection campaign. Shortly after that, the controller awarded Ava a lucrative contract to represent the office. Ava admitted believing her contribution helped secure the contract. Which statement reflects the professional conduct rules?
It is permissible because the official has authority to select attorneys who donate to campaigns
It is not permissible because a lawyer who donates to gain a municipal engagement violates ethical rules
It is not permissible because attorneys who donate are presumed to be seeking special favor
It is permissible if the candidate acknowledges the contribution in open meetings
Rules prohibit lawyers from making a political contribution with an intent to influence or secure an engagement from a public official. The correct answer points out that donating to obtain a municipal contract is unethical. One incorrect answer suggests that the official’s authority alone makes the engagement allowable, but it overlooks the improper motivation behind the contribution. Another incorrect answer claims public acknowledgment rectifies the situation, which ignores the rule against using contributions to gain professional advantage. The final incorrect answer presumes that any campaign donation is automatically seeking special favor, which is not accurate because lawyers may give lawful campaign contributions without expecting a professional benefit.
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What are the ethical rules governing attorney contributions in public office?
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What are the consequences for attorneys who violate these ethical rules?
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What constitutes 'undue influence' in the context of attorney contributions?
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Multistate Professional Responsibility Exam
Lawyers’ duties to the public and the legal system