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

18-Consent and Prospective Waivers

25-Dealing with Unrepresented People

76-Trust and Estate Lawyers

77-Communicating with an Individual Adversary

A lawyer representing the administrator of a decedent's estate (who is also a potential wrongful death beneficiary) may not also represent other purported relatives, because the administrator and the other purported relatives take differing positions on the decedent's paternity. The conflict cannot be cured by disclosure and consent. The lawyer representing the defendant may contact the purported relatives ex parte because they are not currently represented by counsel. The defendant's lawyer may not give any advice "other than the advice to secure counsel," and "may not state or imply that he is disinterested in the matter."

Copyright 2000, Thomas E. Spahn