Joe has recently been admitted to the bar. Attorney Dan hires Joe as an Associate to supervise the work of Sally, the paralegal
who has handled title searches in Dan’s office for the last 10 years. Joe is to review Sally’s searches for accuracy, to handle any legal questions that might arise, and to sign off in Dan’s name once the title searches are accurate. Which of the following is true:A.It is proper for Joe to assume these responsibilities because he is an attorney, and Sally is highly experienced in title searches.B.It is improper for Attorney Dan to assign this role to Joe unless it will significantly lower his client’s fees for title certification.C.It is improper for Joe to assume these responsibilities as he may not sign documents using Dan's name.D.It is proper for Joe to assume these responsibilities because Attorney Dan is ultimately liable for the accuracy of the title searches
The correct answer is C; It is improper for Joe to assume these responsibilities as he may not sign documents using Dan's name.
Further Explanation:
Joe can't sign the attorneys name on any legal questions or documents on the titles. This is unethical as this is forgery since he isn't signing his own name. If Joe does sign off with the attorneys signature and the search was not correct then the attorney, Sally, and Joe will all be in legal trouble.
The attorney will have to review Sally's work and sign off on it. Since Joe is an attorney, he could actually sign his own name to these papers if it is within his job description and there would be no issues.
