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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Virginia-1889

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27-Litigation Tactics (Including Misrepresentations, Tape Recordings)

49-Lawyers - Miscellaneous

73-Family Law Lawyers

A court-appointed lawyer has no duty to represent a parent in appealing an adverse termination of a parental rights order unless the parent has "at some stage in the proceeding" directed or requested the lawyer to appeal the adverse ruling. A lawyer must consult with the parent about filing such an appeal, but may not file the appeal if the lawyer has been unable to contact the parent and receive instructions.

Copyright 2000, Thomas E. Spahn