These summaries were prepared by McGuireWoods LLP lawyer Thomas E. Spahn. They are based on the letter opinions issued by the Virginia State Bar. Any editorial comments reflect Mr. Spahn's current personal views, and not the opinions of the Virginia State Bar, McGuireWoods or its clients. 
 
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16-Lawyer's Personal Interests

48-Criminal Defense Lawyers

50-Lawyer-Owned Businesses

A lawyer may refer clients to a bail bond business the lawyer partially owns if there is full disclosure. [LEO 1343 indicates that the lawyer may not represent the criminal in the matter on which the bonding company has supplied the bond.] [Under Rule 1.8(a), a lawyer may not enter into a "business transaction" with a client unless the client is given an opportunity to seek independent advice, and there has been full disclosure and consent in writing.]

Copyright 2000, Thomas E. Spahn