Certified Legal Professional (CLP) Practice Exam

Which perspective on professionalism suggests that most lawyers still believe in the business-profession dichotomy?

1. Only the business-profession dichotomy explains lawyers' high ethical standards

2. The business-profession dichotomy is no longer persuasive

3. Most lawyers continue to believe in the business-profession dichotomy

4. The business-profession dichotomy is not necessary to high ethical standards

The correct answer is: Most lawyers continue to believe in the business-profession dichotomy

The perspective that most lawyers continue to believe in the business-profession dichotomy reflects the belief that there exists a fundamental difference between the roles of a businessperson and a professional, particularly in the context of the legal field. This dichotomy emphasizes that lawyers are not merely business operators; they are also upholders of ethical standards and advocates for justice. This perspective acknowledges that many members of the legal profession view their work through the lens of both professional duties—such as ensuring justice, upholding the law, and maintaining client confidentiality—and the business aspects of their practice, such as profitability and client relations. This duality shapes how lawyers see their roles and responsibilities. Understanding this perspective reveals that the traditional view of law as a profession, with its own set of ethical standards and obligations, remains prevalent among many practitioners. This belief highlights the ongoing conversation within the legal community about how to balance business interests with the fundamental ethical obligations of being a lawyer. In contrast, other options suggest shifts away from this dichotomy or posit that it does not influence ethical standards, which does not align with the belief that many lawyers still hold regarding the importance of maintaining high ethical standards in their professional conduct.