Attention is focused on the failure of the medical and legal professions to police themselves. One cause of this failure is the lack of communication about ethical and moral principles in the training of the attorney and the physician. The role of the psychiatrist is singled out for consideration in regard to important ethical interests between psychiatrist and patient. Four major areas of conflict are explored: 1, human experimentation; 2, informed consent; 3, confidentiality and privilege; and 4, the professional obligation to exercise due care. The ramifications and potential difficulties for the psychiatrist-patient relationship concerning these issues are explored.