What is the first step to take when faced with an ethical issue?

Identifying the professional responsibility issue(s) is the foundational step when faced with an ethical dilemma. This process involves thoroughly assessing the situation to understand the specific ethical concerns at play. By identifying the key issues, a paralegal can clarify what ethical principles are involved, such as client confidentiality, conflict of interest, or professional conduct standards. This awareness allows for a more structured approach to resolving the issue and ensures that any decisions made are based on a clear understanding of both the ethics and the legal obligations that guide professional conduct.

Once the issues have been identified, further actions such as seeking guidance from a mentor, listing potential options, or reviewing secondary sources become more meaningful and focused. Each of these steps relies on a solid understanding of the core problems before moving ahead. Without first identifying the specific ethical issues, it can be challenging to evaluate potential courses of action or seek proper guidance effectively.