Board of Legal SpecializationPractice Exam

The major consequence of a conflict of interest in legal representation lies in the attorney's duty to act in the client's best interest being compromised. Attorneys have a fundamental obligation to uphold the interests of their clients, ensuring that their advice and actions are guided solely by what benefits the client. When a conflict of interest arises—such as when an attorney represents multiple clients with conflicting interests or has personal interests that could interfere with their professional obligations—this duty can be undermined.

Compromising this duty can result in inadequate representation, where the attorney may be unable to provide unbiased advice or prioritize one client's needs over another's due to competing interests. This breach can harm clients and may also expose the attorney to disciplinary action or legal liability for failure to uphold professional standards. Maintaining a clear and unwavering commitment to a client's interests is crucial in preserving the integrity of the client-attorney relationship and ensuring just outcomes.