After an illustrious twenty-year career as a senior assistant district attorney in Bucks County, New Manitoba, Sarah Finch is ready to give it up. She prosecuted some of the highest-profile cases in Bucks County over the years, and put dozens of criminals behind bars. Now she's had enough of criminal prosecution, and thinks that her life would be less stressful if she moved over into corporate law. Because of her famous name and career, she is offered and accepts a position as senior litigator at Matlock & Mason, LLP.

One of her first assignments is to represent the Bucks County Employees' Union Local 678 in its efforts to merge with the New Manitoba Employees United Workers Local 45. She soon realizes, after delving into the client's files, that the president of Local 678 is none other than Barry Wuffet, who spent 10 years in state prison after Sarah successfully prosecuted him for taking bribes in connection with a different union.

 

Please discuss what the ethical issue is and what Model Rule governs this situation. Be sure to include in your discussion?

 

1. Whether Sarah Finch is even permitted to work at Matlock & Mason;
2. If so, whether Finch may continue to represent Local 678 in this matter; and
3. What steps M&M must take if Finch is to continue working for the firm.

Your essay should be at least five paragraphs in length. A complete explanation of your reasoning is required to earn full credit.

Answer rating: 100% (QA)

The ethical issue at play in this situation is a conflict of interest Model Rule 17 of the American Bar Associations Model Rules of Professional Condu... View the full answer