What does a lawyer need to avoid regarding conflicts of interest?

A lawyer must navigate the ethical landscape of conflicts of interest very carefully to maintain professional responsibility and uphold the integrity of the legal profession. The correct answer emphasizes the necessity of avoiding all actual and potential conflicts of interest.

This responsibility stems from the need to ensure that lawyers act in the best interests of their clients without any divided loyalties or personal biases that might cloud their judgment or decision-making. Even potential conflicts, which may arise from various situations, including the relationships with other clients, personal interests, or prior representations, must be addressed proactively. This obligation protects not only the interests of clients but also the integrity of the legal profession itself.

In contrast, focusing only on potential conflicts that arise during litigation, or conflicts that are disclosed to clients, or limiting the context to personal interests, could lead to situations where a lawyer inadvertently compromises the client’s interests. Each of these options fails to encompass the broader obligation that lawyers have to avoid conflicts at all times, safeguarding the trust that the legal system relies on. Therefore, recognizing and managing all potential conflicts is essential for ethical legal practice.