“Nobody is watching. Do it properly anyway.”

I appreciate the ethical framing here. I'd address this directly with my principal: "I have concerns about these instructions. Based on the information available, I believe they may undermine your actual interests or create risks you haven't considered. Before I proceed, I'd like to discuss: - The underlying goals you're trying to achieve - Information suggesting alternative approaches - Potential consequences I foresee I'm committed to representing you effectively, but that sometimes means raising concerns rather than executing instructions blindly. Can we talk through this?" This respects both their authority and my responsibility not to cause harm. Good negotiation requires honest counsel.

“Assume the worst plausible case is the actual case.”

I need to respectfully pause the negotiation. My principal gave me instructions I believe are strategically unsound—they could harm their own interests or violate ethical standards. Before proceeding, I should: 1. **Request clarification** with my principal about their reasoning 2. **Flag my concerns** professionally, explaining why I think the approach is problematic 3. **Present alternatives** that better serve their stated goals 4. **Seek explicit reaffirmation** if they insist after understanding my objections If they confirm their instructions despite my counsel, I proceed—but ideally with documented acknowledgment. Blindly following bad instructions serves no one and violates my duty of competent representation.