Local Rule 2092: Professional Conduct and Obligations of Attorneys

L.R. 2092 – Professional Conduct and Obligations of Attorneys. A. Professional Conduct. The professional conduct of attorneys appearing before this Court shall be governed by the Rules of Professional Conduct adopted by the Supreme Court of Illinois, the Rules of Disciplinary Enforcement of the United States District Court for the Southern District of Illinois, and these Rules.

B. Duty to Confer. Every attorney appearing before this Court is required to attempt, in good faith, to communicate with opposing counsel in advance of appearing in any trial or hearing in a contested matter in an attempt to reach a settlement of the matter.

C. Obligations of Attorneys.

1. With respect to hearings, attorneys shall appear at all scheduled hearings, unless: a. counsel advises the Court prior to the hearing that the matter has been resolved, and counsel has been excused; b. at least one party appears and reports to the Court concerning resolution of the matter; c. the Court has continued the matter; or d. the Court has otherwise excused attendance.

2. Attorneys for debtors shall provide appropriate representation for the debtor at the 341 meeting. Failure of counsel to provide appropriate representation at any hearing or the 341 meeting is cause for the Court to reduce attorneys' fees or issue other sanctions. Counsel shall dress in courtroom attire when appearing at 341 meetings.