Buying my attorney's office (from him)...COI?

[Michael Healy]

My attorney is co-owner of his office space, which is for sale. He's currently helping me with two closings. Obviously I would find other representation if I pursued a purchase, but in terms of conflict of interest:

1) Does this create a COI on my current transactions?

2) I assume if I am his landlord he can't represent me

Perspectives appreciated.

MH

[John Mattox]

The COI rules you asked about are all about holding him to a high bar in dealing with you. For what its worth look to rules 1.7 & 1.8 here: http://www.nycourts.gov/rules/jointappellate/ny-ru...

As noted above by Javi, he can not represent you in the deal where you buy his building from him but otherwise the rules basically require that he, in engaging in business transactions with you, must treat you with the utmost fairness. Most sellers of real estate you might buy from would not have that hanging over their head. If it is otherwise a good deal I would not pass it up because he represents you in other matters.

- John