What must a lawyer do if there is a potential conflict with another attorney from the same firm?

In situations where there is a potential conflict of interest involving another attorney within the same firm, seeking informed consent from the client is the correct course of action. This process involves fully disclosing the nature of the conflict to the client and obtaining their agreement to proceed despite the conflict. Informed consent ensures that the client is aware of any implications that might result from the conflict and allows them to make an educated decision regarding their representation.

The necessity of this step is rooted in the principles of professional conduct that govern attorneys. These principles emphasize the importance of maintaining client trust and understanding, which can be jeopardized if a conflict is not properly addressed. This consent must be given voluntarily and based on a clear understanding of what the conflict entails.

Addressing potential conflicts of interest transparently not only upholds ethical standards but also fosters a more trustworthy attorney-client relationship. The attorney is required to maintain the integrity of the legal process, ensuring that all clients receive fair and competent representation without any adverse influence from conflicts within the firm.