Certified Legal Professional (CLP) Practice Exam

What was the consequence of the attorney's failure to cite a relevant Supreme Court decision in the products liability case?

1. The attorney is shielded from any disciplinary action

2. The plaintiff's case was significantly strengthened

3. The defense attorney's credibility may be questioned

4. The plaintiffs lose their right to pursue the case

The correct answer is: The defense attorney's credibility may be questioned

The consequence of the attorney's failure to cite a relevant Supreme Court decision in the products liability case is that the defense attorney's credibility may be questioned. In legal practice, attorneys are expected to conduct thorough research and present all pertinent case law that could impact the outcome of the case. When a relevant Supreme Court decision is not cited, it can lead to perceptions of negligence or lack of preparation, raising concerns about the attorney's professional competence and ability to advocate effectively for their client. This questioning of credibility can undermine the attorney's arguments, affect the jury's perception, and potentially influence the judge's rulings on motions or other procedural matters. In the context of a products liability case, where understanding precedent is crucial to determining liability and defenses, failing to reference significant case law could be seen as a major oversight, potentially weakening the overall case. As a result, this lapse can result in doubts about the professionalism and thoroughness of the defense attorney, creating challenges for them moving forward in the case.