Question

Q: Discuss the ethical obligations and liabilities of lawyers under Canon VI - Accountability of the Code of Professional Responsibility. Give factual situations to illustrate the application of the said Canon.

1. A client approached Attorney A to handle a divorce case. After receiving the retainer fee, Attorney A failed to communicate with the client and neglected to file the necessary documents and pleadings in court. As a result, the client's case was dismissed. Discuss the ethical implications of Attorney A's actions under Canon VI.
2. Attorney B, while representing a defendant in a criminal case, bribed a key witness to change his testimony. The witness succumbed to the bribery and provided false statements on the witness stand. Analyze the ethical responsibilities of Attorney B and the potential consequences of his actions under Canon VI.
3. Attorney C, in the course of representing a corporate client, discovered that the client had engaged in fraudulent activities. However, Attorney C chose to ignore the illegal actions and continued providing legal services to the client. Examine the ethical obligations of Attorney C and the potential disciplinary actions he may face under Canon VI.