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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17-Fraud on the Tribunal

73-Family Law Lawyers

A lawyer representing a party in a divorce must disclose the inaccuracy of the adversary's allegation of twelve-month separation if the client has indicated that the statement is inaccurate. The lawyer must disclosure the fraud even if the lawyer does not represent the client, but must obtain the client's consent to reveal the fraud if the information about the inaccuracy was given in confidence to the lawyer. [If the fraud amounted to "fraud on a tribunal," the lawyer would have to reveal the fraud even if the client objected.]

Copyright 2000, Thomas E. Spahn