An extension specialist is often viewed by the public as an expert in their area. As a result, they may be asked to render objective opinions and even moderate disputes between parties involving issues in their area of expertise. Extension administrators have even encouraged this form of assistance as part of the public service mission. Initially, the assistance may be voluntary and represent a good faith effort to provide unbiased information and resolve disputes; however, some disputes inevitably escalate into lawsuits. In a lawsuit the specialist may be asked to represent one side, or be required to appear in court by subpoena. Needless to say, legal disputes place extension specialists in uncomfortable situations. Preparing for court requires considerable time and effort that interferes with other professional duties as well as personal life. Lawsuits may carry on for years, and extension policies forbid specialists from accepting extra compensation for activities viewed as a normal part of their extension role. Cases have even resulted in specialists opposing other extension employees or research counterparts at their institution. In the end, most lawsuits have a winner and a loser. Depending on the losing person or entity (government, company, etc.), the specialist and extension may be the ultimate losers in terms of credibility and even political and financial support. Involvement in legal issues is new territory for most extension specialists and even administrators. Specialists could benefit from an open discussion of legal issues and clear written policy from extension administration. Legal pre-counseling as part of orientation and inservice training would also be beneficial to help specialists navigate the many issues involved in legal disputes.