In the attorney/adversary model, the client’s best interests are paramount over any other. In the enlightened self-interest model, the public good is sacrosanct.
Ideally a public relations professional must be an advocate for his/her client but always an “honest broker” who never ever lies.
In working with lawyers, public relations professionals should: 1) become an equal partner with legal counsel, 2) combat the “no-comment” syndrome, 3) take the initiative in making announcements, and 4) convince the client that winning the case may not restore credibility.
Is this realistic? What would make a senior executive value one perspective (legal) over another (PR)?