Question
Steve and Jack were classmates in the law school and close friends. After graduation, Steve joined an international law firm titled Macking Co., whose main
Steve and Jack were classmates in the law school and close friends. After graduation, Steve joined an international law firm titled Macking Co., whose main business was to facilitate the initial public offering (IPO) process for technology companies in Southeast Asia. Steve quickly became a partner of Macking Co. On the other hand, Jack worked for a local bank as a legal and compliance officer. One afternoon when Jack and his boss Bill were having coffee, Bill mentioned that one of the Southeast Asian firms, TEA Ltd., was interested in exploring the Hong Kong market. Also, TEA Ltd. was looking for a law firm which was familiar with legal matters in technology sector. Jack soon introduced Steve to Bill, hoping to land his friend a deal. When they met, TEA Ltd. was so impressed with Steve's professional experience and his impeccable record. Steve informed Bill that if they were not in a rush, he would soon resign and start a new law firm which could provide legal services to TEA Ltd., and Bill happily agreed. Steve did not mention this business arrangement with TEA Ltd. to the other partners in Macking Co. all along. After his resignation from Macking Co., Steve's new law firm assisted TEA Ltd. in launching its IPO successfully.
Required: Explain whether Steve breached any of the three fiduciary duties as a partner of Macking Co. and discuss the possible consequences, if any. (15 marks)
Step by Step Solution
There are 3 Steps involved in it
Step: 1
Get Instant Access to Expert-Tailored Solutions
See step-by-step solutions with expert insights and AI powered tools for academic success
Step: 2
Step: 3
Ace Your Homework with AI
Get the answers you need in no time with our AI-driven, step-by-step assistance
Get Started