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

39-Miscellaneous

A lawyer representing a capital murder defendant must comply with the client's decision not to present any mitigating evidence at the sentencing hearing, as long as the lawyer has fully advised the client of the consequences of such conduct and the client is "competent to make an informed, rational and stable choice regarding whether to fight the death penalty with mitigating evidence." [Rule 1.14 provides guidance to lawyers representing clients under a disability.]

Copyright 2000, Thomas E. Spahn