32. Essay 2 (1/3 of Exam Grade) – Answer according to both t…
32. Essay 2 (1/3 of Exam Grade) – Answer according to both the American Bar Association Model Rules of Professional Conduct and California authorities Pete is a partner at Law Firm, a firm with multiple offices across the United States. One of Law Firm’s clients is Running Desk Corp., a company that manufactures office desks with a built-in treadmill for people who desire a more active and healthy lifestyle. Law Firm reviews Running Desk Corp.’s purchase orders and agreements with component manufacturers. Pete purchased one of these treadmill desks for his office. One day, while running on his treadmill, Pete fell when he tried to take a closer look at his computer monitor on the desk component. As a result of the fall, Pete sustained severe orthopedic injuries. Hank, a partner in Law Firm’s east coast office, has been asked to represent Running Desk Corp. in a lawsuit filed by attorney Abe. Abe has filed a class action on behalf of all people who sustained orthopedic injuries after purchasing Running Desk Corp.’s treadmill desk. Hank files an answer to the complaint before running the request through Law Firm’s conflicts manager. Class action notices were sent to all potential class members, but Pete has not responded whether he will join the class yet. Abe also represents Cam as a plaintiff in a case arising out of an automobile accident, where Cam sustained severe injuries which required amputation of both legs above the knee, and both arms right below the elbow. The defendant in Cam’s case made an offer to settle in the amount of $100,000. Since the class action against Running Desk Corp. will be expensive to litigate, Cam accepts the offer to settle. Abe then calls Cam to tell him that his case resolved and to sign the settlement agreement. Please discuss whether Pete, Hank, and/or Abe would be subject to discipline.