Advisory Opinion: 1450

Year Issued: 1991

RPC(s): RPC 1.10

Subject: Conflict of interest; imputed disqualification; opposing party consulted with lawyer's former partner

The Committee reviewed your inquiry concerning your representation of a plaintiff in a lawsuit. You recently learned that one of the defendants previously consulted with a lawyer with whom, at the time of the consultation, you were in partnership. You advised the Committee that you have no confidences or secrets of this defendant. Based upon the facts as presented by you, the Committee was of the opinion that RPC 1.10(c) would permit you to continue to represent the plaintiff in this matter.

Advisory Opinions are provided for the education of the Bar and reflect the opinion of the Committee on Professional Ethics (CPE) or its predecessors. Advisory Opinions are provided pursuant to the authorization granted by the Board of Governors, but are not individually approved by the Board and do not reflect the official position of the Bar association. Laws other than the Washington State Rules of Professional Conduct may apply to the inquiry. The Committee's answer does not include or opine about any other applicable law other than the meaning of the Rules of Professional Conduct.