What must a lawyer ensure when representing multiple clients?

When representing multiple clients, it is essential for a lawyer to ensure that they can provide competent representation without any adverse impact on their clients' interests. This obligation arises from the duty to maintain professionalism and uphold the ethical standards of representation.

In situations where a lawyer represents several clients, there is a heightened responsibility to evaluate whether the interests of those clients may conflict. The lawyer must identify and manage any potential conflicts of interest, which may arise due to differing goals, strategies, or outcomes desired by the clients involved. This careful consideration is crucial because, if not properly managed, representing multiple clients can lead to situations where one client’s interests are compromised to the detriment of another.

Competent representation means that the lawyer not only understands the legal issues at play but also actively works to safeguard each client's interests throughout the process. The California Rules of Professional Conduct specifically mandate that lawyers cannot represent clients if their interests are directly adverse unless all affected parties consent after full disclosure. Thus, it is imperative for a lawyer to ensure that they can effectively represent each client without compromising anyone's position.

The other options do not align with the ethical obligations of a lawyer managing multiple clients. For instance, while it can be beneficial for clients to agree on strategies, it is not a