Advisory Opinion: 1542

Year Issued: 1993

RPC(s): RPC 1.7

Subject: Conflict of interest; same lawyer prosecuting criminal charges and bringing civil forfeiture proceedings

The Committee reviewed your inquiry concerning whether there is a conflict between your actions in prosecuting criminal charges and in bringing civil forfeiture proceedings. The Committee was of the opinion that there is no conflict in bringing the two causes of action.

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.