"I trust your gut feeling more than mine, but I do need legal advice. I can read all I want about the system and proper conduct but that doesn't translate into practical experience." Which is to say that he doesn't want to dismiss Alexei's concern, but he still needs the help.

"If I give him the base details I'm not sure how much that would help, but I don't have to give him this file. Does that sit better? Or would you prefer me leave our case out of it, just ask him for coaching?" That wouldn't be as helpful, but certainly more than nothing.