Is Texaco's counsel really independent? Experts ask whether Michael Armstrong is just a company advocate

Article Abstract:

Actions of the independent counsel hired by Texaco Inc. to investigate the discriminatory actions alleged in a Nov 4, 1996, New York Times article have raised the suspicion that Michael Armstrong, the independent counsel, may not be so independent after all. The inquiry's speed and the conclusions favorable to Texaco are what raised suspicions. Neil V. Getnick, president of a group issuing ethical guidelines for independent counsel, states that the defining factor is whether the counsel acts as an advocate for the company.

Texaco Inc., TX, Armstrong, C. Michael, Special prosecutors

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New antitrust chief Klein gets high marks

Article Abstract:

Joel I. Klein has been named acting chief of the US Justice Dept's Antitrust Div after Anne K. Bingaman's resignation. Klein was Bingaman's principal deputy. He is well respected by the antitrust bar for his sharp intellect, swift understanding of technical concepts and cordial manner. Klein will immediately have to deal with fresh complaints about the Microsoft Corp. Merger enforcement will be another priority.

United States. Department of Justice. Antitrust Division, Government attorneys, Klein, Joel I.

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Ethics for 'independent' probes: can lawyers serve as both disinterested fact-finders and advocates for clients?

Article Abstract:

Law firms may find themselves facing ethical questions when they help corporations conduct independent ethics investigations. Independent probes have become a big source of business for some law firms, but critics say these firms are actually acting as advocates rather than as objective investigators. Attorney-client privilege is usually the chief ethics issue to consider in such investigations.

Corporations, Legal Services, Ethical aspects, Law firms, Business ethics, Legal ethics, Conflict of interests (Attorneys), Conflicts of interest (Lawyers), Confidential communications, Attorney-client privilege

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