Conflict of interest?
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Conflict of interest?
The attorney that handled my case was also my co-defendant’s former attorney. Is
this considered conflict of interest? This attorney was assigned to me by the
state. I did not know it at the time because the attorney did not make me aware
of it. I’ve already been sentenced and the case is closed but I’m wondering if
this is considered a conflict of interest and if I have any legal rights.
Asked on December 22, 2017 under Criminal Law, Wisconsin
Answers:
S.L,. Member, California Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney
Answered 6 years ago | Contributor
If the attorney represented both you and your co-defendant in the same case, there would be a conflict of interest, and the attorney would have had to inform you of the conflict of interest and your right to consult with another attorney. Your attorney's failure to do that would have been grounds for an appeal of your conviction.
However, if your attorney represented your co-defendant in a previous matter unrelated to you or your current case, there would not be a conflict of interest.
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