Opinion ID: 694763
Heading Depth: 4
Heading Rank: 2

Heading: Trial Court Inquiry into Potential Conflict.

Text: 43 Defendant James also contends that the district court erred by failing to properly inquire into the potential conflict created by Atkin's dual representation. 44 When a trial court learns that an attorney might be representing conflicting interests, the court must investigate further, advise the defendant of the potential conflict, and receive a waiver if that is the expressed wish of the defendant. United States v. Tatum, 943 F.2d 370, 379 (4th Cir.1991). See also United States v. Straughter, 950 F.2d 1223, 1233 (6th Cir.1991), cert. denied, 117 L.Ed.2d 471 (1992). 45 The district court satisfied its obligation to inquire into the potential conflict presented in this case. The district court personally addressed James and told him of the problems created by dual representation. After the court advised him regarding the potential conflict of interest, James explicitly waived any objection to being represented by Atkin. Only after his case began to look bad did he object to being represented by Atkin. Thus, the district court properly inquired into the potential conflict. 46