In a dynamic and insightful panel discussion titled “The Florida Bar Annual Convention: Our Favorite Mistakes – Professionalism and Ethics Tips,” leading legal professionals, including the Firm’s own Edward Blumberg, convened to share crucial advice on maintaining ethical conduct and professionalism within the legal field. The session, the first-ever program by the standing committee on professionalism at an annual meeting, aimed to equip attendees with practical tips to “stay out of trouble.” The introducer sets the tone with a quote from Dolly Parton, likening the challenges lawyers face to “rain” that must be endured to find the “rainbow” of success and ethical practice. The esteemed panel, comprising individuals such as past Florida Bar President Edward Blumberg, incoming Florida Bar President Scott Westheimer, Deputy General Counsel for the Department of Agriculture Maggie Ozararski, and incoming Chair of the Standing Committee on Professionalism Chardine Hill, each offered their unique wisdom gleaned from extensive legal careers. The structure of the program involved brief presentations followed by group discussions, fostering an interactive environment for lawyers to share experiences and learn from one another.
Edward Blumberg, a prominent partner at the Firm, kicks off the panel presentations by recounting a fascinating personal anecdote he terms “the elevator rule.” This story vividly illustrates the importance of discretion and honesty. Blumberg describes overhearing a lawyer advising a client in an elevator to dissemble during a deposition, only to discover it was his deposition they were discussing. This direct experience led him to emphasize the paramount importance of telling the truth, regardless of the circumstances, as credibility is everything in the legal profession. He further highlights the risk of losing attorney-client privilege when sensitive information is discussed in public spaces, using another anecdote about his legal assistant overhearing a similar conversation in Spanish. Blumberg’s “elevator rule” serves as a memorable and practical guide for maintaining confidentiality and integrity, not just for lawyers but also for their clients, underscoring the Firm’s commitment to upholding the highest ethical standards in all interactions.