A longtime client calls and asks if you could represent him and a group of business “partners” in a dispute they are having with one of their partners, who claims they have engaged in self-dealing. Another client asks you to represent her in the negotiation of an operating agreement with four “friends” who are starting a new business. The client holds out the promise you will represent the business if everyone “likes you.” In both scenarios, you will jointly represent multiple clients either now or in the future.

A joint representation often means more interesting legal work and higher billings because the representation tends to be more complicated and time-consuming. On the most basic level, you are communicating with more than one client, seeking a consensus on a single strategy, and keeping multiple clients satisfied. On another level, the interests of the clients must align and they may not accuse one another of misconduct. An attorney cannot represent clients who have adverse interests.

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