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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3-Multiple Representations on the Same Matter

48-Criminal Defense Lawyers

It is per se improper for a lawyer to represent the criminal defendant, the victim and the victim's mother (the defendant's wife). Because it is not "obvious" that the lawyer may adequately represent the interests of all of these clients, the conflict cannot be cured by consent. Rule 1.7(a)(1) follows a subjective "reasonably believes" standard rather than the old Code's objective "obvious" standard.]

Copyright 2000, Thomas E. Spahn