What should a barrister do if a potential conflict is disclosed after engagement?

• A. Ignore it if it seems minor.
• B. Address promptly, assess with conflicts checks, and consider withdrawal if necessary.
• C. Delay disclosure to avoid panic.
• D. Inform the other party automatically.

Answer: (B)

When a potential conflict is disclosed after engagement, you must address it without delay. Run a conflicts check to verify whether there is now a real, potential, or perceived conflict and assess whether continuing would undermine your duty to the client, your independence, or confidentiality. If the conflict cannot be managed or waived in a way that protects those duties, withdrawal from the matter is the appropriate course. This keeps the representation fair and trustworthy and protects the client’s interests. Ignoring the disclosure, delaying it, or automatically informing the other party would be inappropriate. If the conflict can be safely managed with proper safeguards (and, where allowed, informed consent), continuation may be possible, but only after a careful assessment.