Under Pennsylvania law, lawyers are required to provide competent, ethical representation. However, in some instances, lawyers will represent parties despite a conflict of interest. A common situation involves a lawyer who represents two parties in a matter who have interests directly in opposition to each other. For example, a lawyer who represents a mortgage company and a buyer/mortgagee in a real estate transaction is representing parties with interests adverse to each other.
Another situation involves a lawyer who handles a matter and has a financial interest in the outcome of the transaction. For example, in a commercial transaction, if the lawyer receives a kickback from another party with interests adverse to the lawyer’s client, the lawyer would likely be deemed to be committing malpractice.
Under the laws of Pennsylvania, someone who has suffered damage as a result of their lawyer’s malpractice may bring a malpractice claim against their lawyer, provided the case is filed within the two year statute of limitations. There are however, some exceptions to the statute of limitations and it is best to speak to a lawyer as soon as possible.
Related Legal Article: What is Legal Malpractice in New Jersey?
If you’d like your potential malpractice claim reviewed by our lawyers, call 215.925.4451.Our lawyers handle professional liability matters involving lawyers, accountants, and other professionals.
The lawyers at Schwartz & Blackman handle professional liability matters in the Pennsylvania and New Jersey area:
- PA: Berks County, Bucks County, Chester County, Delaware County, Montgomery County, Philadelphia County, Allentown, Lehigh Valley, Norristown, Philadelphia
- NJ: Atlantic County, Burlington County, Camden County, Gloucester County, Mercer County, Middlesex County, Monmouth County, Camden, Cherry Hill, New Jersey shore cities
*This website does not provide legal advice. Every case is unique and it is important to get a qualified, expert legal opinion prior to making any decisions about your case. See the full disclaimer at the bottom of this page.
Published: June 18, 2012