In a situation of debatable conduct, who is primarily responsible?

In situations of debatable conduct, the supervisor holds primary responsibility because they have the duty to oversee the work of subordinate lawyers and ensure that all conduct adheres to ethical standards and legal obligations. Supervisors are expected to provide guidance, assess risks, and ultimately create an environment where ethical practices are promoted.

When a subordinate lawyer encounters a situation where the appropriate course of action is not clear, it is the supervisor’s role to help navigate those challenging scenarios. This includes providing necessary training, resources, and advice that can assist in decision-making. In essence, supervisors play a critical part in shaping the ethical culture of the law firm and must take proactive steps to manage and mitigate potential issues.

The other choices provided do not correctly reflect the primary responsibility in this context. Although subordinate lawyers have their own obligations to act ethically, they typically look to their superiors for guidance in uncertain situations. The managing partner may have overall responsibility for the firm’s practices but is not involved in the day-to-day management of individual cases. The option stating "no one is responsible" undermines the foundational principle of accountability in legal practice, which assigns responsibility and oversight to those in supervisory roles.