Practice

Outside Ethics Counsel

Hilary serves as outside ethics counsel to law firms and lawyers. She advises on conflicts of interest, loss prevention, trust accounting, misconduct issues, fee disputes, and other matters arising from practice. She counsels firms at every stage of their operations — from formation to dissolution.

Partner & Group Lateral Transitions

Hilary advises firms and lawyers on the ethics issues surrounding partner and group lateral moves. She provides guidance at the planning stage and addresses disputes that arise during or after transition. 

Law Firm Innovation

Hilary advises on emerging structures and business models within the legal profession. Her work includes assisting with litigation funding arrangements, navigating the District of Columbia’s rule permitting non-lawyer partners, and the creation of compliant master services organizations (MSOs).

Criminal & Internal Investigations

Hilary advises lawyers subject to criminal investigation and those responding to subpoenas relating to client matters. Hilary conducts sensitive internal investigations when misconduct is alleged.

Disciplinary and UPL Investigations & Admissions

Hilary represents lawyers responding to disciplinary investigations at the state and federal level, including matters before bar authorities, the Department of Justice’s Office of Professional Responsibility, and the USPTO’s Office of Enrollment and Discipline.

Hilary handles all stages of the process — from initial response through hearing and appeal. Hilary also advises on unauthorized practice of law matters and represents lawyers in UPL investigations, and she counsels lawyers seeking admission to the D.C., Virginia, Maryland and New York bars.