What should a lawyer do if a conflict of interest arises unexpectedly?

When a conflict of interest arises unexpectedly, the lawyer's immediate responsibility is to communicate with all affected clients. This is critical because the clients need to be informed of the potential conflict so that they can make informed decisions regarding their representation. Full transparency helps maintain trust and preserves the integrity of the attorney-client relationship.

Ensuring that clients are aware of any conflicts allows them to assess how it might affect their case and whether they wish to continue with the representation. This duty to communicate is rooted in the ethical obligations attorneys have to uphold client autonomy and protect client interests.

While it might seem reasonable to consider notifying the court or seeking advice from a colleague, those actions do not address the primary obligation to the clients involved. Ignoring the conflict altogether is ethically impermissible, regardless of its perceived significance. Making clients aware empowers them and supports ethical legal practice.