Place, information technology and legal ethics

Place, information technology and legal ethics

This thesis addresses the impact that technology has on lawyers’ ethics. It first establishes a case for place, drawing on the works of Martin Heidegger and his
disciples. By analysing legal theory, ethical theory, continental philosophy and technology theory, three key elements of place emerge – location, community and
history. This Heideggerian framework underpins the thesis and addresses the issues lawyers face with increased technology use. Lawyers are currently confronted by
technology that has evolved as a result of globalisation. Their ethical obligations in relation to communication, confidentiality, conflicts of interest and litigation are
challenged. Place affects lawyers’ ethics to a significant extent. A place based ethical perspective fills the gap within community theories of lawyers’ ethics and bridges the
gap between ethical theories and technology philosophy. By recognising and preserving place, lawyers will maintain a stronger connection with their professional duties.