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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1631

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6-Lawyers Paid by Third Party

17-Fraud on the Tribunal

31-Protecting and Disclosing Confidences and Secrets

36-Withdrawal from Representations

73-Family Law Lawyers

A lawyer being paid by a serviceman's parents to represent him in a divorce matter nevertheless owes a duty to the serviceman instead of the parents. When the serviceman filed a bankruptcy petition that seems inconsistent with the lawyer's understanding of who is paying the lawyer's bill, the lawyer must attempt to communicate directly with the serviceman or his bankruptcy counsel to obtain the true facts. The lawyer need not withdraw yet, but depending on what the lawyer discovers may be obligated to withdraw from representing the client. If so, the lawyer must take reasonable steps "for the continued protection of client's interests."

Copyright 2000, Thomas E. Spahn