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Are lawyers allowed to defend their own family members?


I've always assumed that this wasn't allowed, but the other day, a friend and I somehow got into discussing the law, and I made a comment that lawyers aren't allowed to defend their own family members...

He said he's never heard of this and didn't believe me, and truthfully, nobody's ever told me this either...I just assumed....so am I right or not? Just wondering....

Sure. Lawyers can defend their own family members but it's not a good idea. A good lawyer is someone who can represent a client in the most professional and objective manner. A family member can create a scenario where all objectivity is lost. It's almost like a lawyer representing him or herself, as the old saying goes, "they end up having a fool for a client."

Your friend is correct.

Of course you can defend your own family member. You can have anyone you want represent your interest in court.

That said, it's stupid to have a family member as a lawyer, and most judges will discourage the practice. There is a lack of objectivity and acting in the best interests of the client is a previous relationship has been established.

But if you insist, then it's not illegal.

Sure, but it's probably not a good idea.

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