What must Ohio attorneys do if a conflict of interest arises with a client?

When a conflict of interest arises with a client, Ohio attorneys have an ethical obligation to disclose the conflict and seek the client's consent before proceeding with representation. This approach stems from the fundamental principles of legal ethics, which prioritize the duty of loyalty to clients and the necessity of maintaining transparency in the attorney-client relationship.

By disclosing the conflict, the attorney ensures that the client is fully informed about any potential issues that could affect their legal representation. Seeking the client's consent is crucial because it allows the client to make an informed decision on whether to continue with the attorney despite the conflict. This practice upholds the integrity of the legal profession and protects the client's interests.

Furthermore, ignoring the conflict, continuing representation without disclosure, or transferring the case to a colleague without informing the client would violate ethical standards. Such actions could jeopardize the attorney's professional standing and compromise the client's rights. Therefore, the correct course of action is to address the conflict openly, ensuring that the client has a say in how their legal matters are managed.