What is the primary duty of loyalty a lawyer has to their client?

The primary duty of loyalty that a lawyer has to their client revolves around the obligation to prioritize the client's interests above all others. This principle is foundational in the attorney-client relationship and fundamentally reflects the trust that clients place in their lawyers. When a lawyer represents a client, they enter into a fiduciary relationship, meaning that they must act in the best interests of the client and place those interests before their own. This encompasses avoiding conflicts of interest, maintaining confidentiality, and providing undivided attention to the client’s legal needs.

Ensuring equal representation for all parties might imply a shared loyalty, which can lead to conflicts of interest and ultimately undermine the duty a lawyer owes to their client. Avoiding personal involvement with clients could restrict the nature of the relationship needed for effective representation, as attorneys often benefit from understanding their clients' circumstances. While disclosing personal interests is important for transparency and avoiding conflicts, it does not encapsulate the primary duty of loyalty itself. The main focus remains on safeguarding and promoting the client's interests as the lawyer's top priority.