Successive representation is another area where attorneys need to be careful in not having a conflict of interest. What this involves is an attorney representing a client in a matter which may be adverse to that of a former client. Since there are many more attorneys and more options for most people, this issue is arising more frequently. An attorney can be disqualified for such conduct if the interests of the former and current client are really and truly adverse in nature and if the past and current matters are closely related in some way. An attorney in such a position would risk breaching confidentiality to represent the successive client.
Attorneys acting as witnesses can be another area of conflict.
Sometimes an attorney will be called upon as a witness in a case in which the attorney is acting as the advocate. To prohibit an attorney from testifying protects the client's interest because there is the chance the testimony could harm the client's case. So be thorough when you search for an attorney and be certain your choice is one which will not be a conflict of interest, which could jeopardize your case. A conflict of interest in your lawsuit is something to watch out for and be certain you don't get involved in. Inc. PageWise makes no representations about the content published on this site.