ESG and Ethical Lawyering


The traditional view is that the purpose of the corporation is to maximize profit for shareholders. But increasingly, shareholders, employees, and other stakeholders are looking to corporations to lead with regard to other issues, including ESG issues relating to climate change, human rights, and other social justice matters. Although the SEC is contemplating certain disclosure requirements, lawyers have special responsibilities in advising corporate clients in navigating other social and political dynamics. Indeed, ESG-related lawsuits are becoming more common. This program will consider the role of the lawyer and professional responsibility in addressing CSR and ESG when counseling and advising corporate clients.