What is the best action for counselors when they have legal questions?

When counselors have legal questions, the most prudent action is to listen to their lawyer and follow their advice. This is because legal matters can be complex and nuanced; a qualified attorney possesses the expertise and knowledge to interpret laws and regulations accurately and provide guidance specific to a counselor's situation. They can address the specific legal context in which the counselor operates, ensuring compliance with applicable laws and helping to navigate potential ethical dilemmas related to legal issues.

By following the advice of a lawyer, counselors can safeguard their practice from possible legal repercussions and ensure that they are acting within the bounds of the law. This action reinforces the importance of seeking professional legal counsel when unsure about legal issues, as it recognizes the limitations of informal advice from colleagues or self-research, which may not provide the legal specificity required in many situations. Additionally, ignoring legal issues until they arise can lead to significant risks and liabilities that could have been prevented with appropriate legal guidance.