When a client may be involved in multiple jurisdictions, which action best mitigates conflicts of interest?

• A. Represent both sides in a dispute to maximize revenue.
• B. Disclose conflicts, obtain consent, and refer if necessary.
• C. Ignore potential conflicts.
• D. Share client information with all jurisdictions to maintain transparency.

Answer: (B)

When a client is involved in more than one jurisdiction, the boundary to protect the client’s interests is clear: disclose potential conflicts, obtain informed consent, and refer if the conflict cannot be resolved. Begin by informing the client about any clashes in duties, loyalties, or confidentiality that could arise across jurisdictions, and explain how these might affect the representation. Then seek the client’s informed consent, ideally in writing, so they understand the risks and agree to proceed under those conditions. If the conflict cannot be mitigated—meaning loyal representation or confidential protection could be compromised—the appropriate step is to refer the matter to another attorney or withdraw. This approach upholds ethical duties, preserves client autonomy, and avoids scenarios where conflicts could undermine the quality or integrity of representation. Representing both sides, ignoring conflicts, or sharing client information across jurisdictions would undermine loyalty, confidentiality, and privilege, and are not appropriate strategies.