LEO 668

 

Under the provisions of DR:7-103(A)(1) of the Virginia Code of Professional Responsibility and LE Op. 369, it is not improper for an attorney to give advice of a general nature or express an opinion on a matter to an individual already represented by an attorney on the same matter. The legal right of that individual to select or discharge counsel makes such general advice “authorized by law.” However, it is not proper for an attorney to accept employment on that same matter unless the other counsel approves, withdraws or is discharged by the client prior to the new attorney's acceptance of employment.