Professionalism on the Frontlines of Environmental Law

​PANEL DESCRIPTION

​The session will examine the broader expectations placed on attorneys beyond formal ethical rules, focusing on the faithful application of legal knowledge and skill in service of both clients and the public good. Discussion will center on the duties of attorneys to promote fairness, civility, and trust in the legal system, including the elimination of bias and discriminatory communication or conduct. Mr. Goodell will address the importance of equal access to justice, cultural competence, and sensitivity to social, cultural, and other differences when interacting with clients, judges, jurors, litigants, opposing counsel, and court personnel. The conversation will also highlight the role of attorney competency, professionalism in advocacy and decision-making, and the enduring obligation to provide pro bono service as a cornerstone of a just and inclusive legal profession.

​Moderated by Billy Hennessy.

​BILL GOODELL, TULANE UNIVERSITY

​Mr. Goodell is the principal at William W. Goodell, Jr., PLC, and he is Of Counsel at Murray Law Firm. After receiving his BA from the University of New Orleans in 1976, he continued to Baton Rouge to attend law school at LSU, where he received his JD in 1980. Mr. Goodell pursued his LLM in Energy and Environment at Tulane and received the degree in 1987. As a member of the adjunct faculty at Tulane Law School, he specializes in Toxic Torts.