Can one divorce lawyer represent both spouses to save time and money?
The answer is an unqualified “no.” One divorce lawyer cannot represent both parties. There are both practical and ethical considerations that stand in the way. From a practical standpoint, dual representation can prove disastrous. Instead of working for the best possible result for one client, the lawyer is caught in the middle between competing demands. The attorney would be looking for a middle ground, and would compromise every issue, rather than zealously advocating the interests of his own client. The situation does justice to neither party. From an ethical point of view, a divorce attorney is required to use his best efforts to promote the interests of his client. If a lawyer is representing both parties, he/she is then trying to advance the interests of both parties, not just his own client. His duty to his own client is then diluted. While it is true that it would be more costly to hire two divorce lawyers than one, each party will then have a strong advocate to protect their o
