Reading Room Document

Representation of Corporation by Law Firm With Which Former United States Attorney Is Associated

The document discusses the conflict of interest that arises when a former United States Attorney, Mr. A, is associated with a law firm representing a corporation in a case that was pending in the U.S. Attorney's Office at the time of Mr. A's departure. The conclusion reached is that Mr. A is personally barred from appearing as an agent or attorney in the case for one year from the date he left the U.S. Attorney's Office. The document presents questions regarding the applicability of Disciplinary Rule 9-101(B) of the American Bar Association Code of Professional Responsibility, the waiver of imputed disqualification of the entire law firm, and the restrictions on Mr. A's receiving fees based on different legal provisions. The document also discusses the interpretation of "substantial responsibility" and the factors to be considered in determining whether a former government attorney may personally represent a party in a matter that was under his official responsibility.

January 27, 1977