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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ABA-403

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54-Insurance Defense Lawyers

A law firm hired by an insurance carrier to represent an insured may also represent the carrier, but regardless of the contractual arrangement will be bound by the rule of professional conduct and not the insurance contract. If the insurance carrier may dictate litigation strategy and settlement, the lawyer must disclose this limitation to the insured and may not settle a case over the insured's objection without giving the insured a chance to take over the case at the insured's own expense.

Copyright 2000, Thomas E. Spahn