Confllict of Interest Policy

Introduction

Averillaw Solicitors recognises the importance of maintaining integrity, transparency, and trust in our legal services. As part of our commitment to upholding the highest ethical standards, we have established this Conflict of Interest Policy to identify, prevent, and manage conflicts of interest that may arise in the course of our legal practice.

Definition of Conflict of Interest

A conflict of interest arises when the personal, professional, or financial interests of our firm, our staff members, or our clients conflict with our duty to provide independent and impartial legal advice. Conflicts of interest can arise in various situations, including but not limited to:

  • Representing multiple clients with competing interests in the same matter.
  • Acting for clients whose interests conflict with those of the firm or its staff members.
  • Engaging in personal or business relationships that may impair our ability to act in the best interests of our clients.
  • Accepting gifts, favors, or other benefits that could compromise our independence or objectivity.

Identification and Disclosure

It is the responsibility of all staff members at Averillaw Solicitors to promptly identify and disclose any potential conflicts of interest that may arise in the course of their work. This includes:

  • Conducting thorough conflict checks before accepting new clients or matters to ensure that there are no conflicts with existing clients or matters.
  • Being vigilant for any situations or relationships that may give rise to a conflict of interest and promptly reporting them to the designated conflict of interest officer.

Assessment and Management

Once a potential conflict of interest is identified and disclosed, it will be assessed by the designated conflict of interest officer to determine the appropriate course of action. This may include:

  • Obtaining informed consent from affected clients after fully disclosing the nature and implications of the conflict.
  • Implementing appropriate safeguards to mitigate the risks associated with the conflict, such as establishing informationbarriers or assigning separate teams to handle conflicting matters.
    • Declining to act for one or more parties where it is not possible to effectively manage the conflict or where doing so would compromise our duty to act in the best interests of our clients.

    Confidentiality and Ethical Obligations

    All staff members at Averillaw Solicitors are required to maintain strict confidentiality and adhere to the highest ethical standards when handling conflicts of interest. This includes:

    • Respecting the confidentiality of client information and not disclosing any confidential or privileged information without proper authorization.
    • Avoiding any conduct or activities that could give rise to an actual or perceived conflict of interest, including engaging in transactions or relationships that may impair our independence or integrity.

    Reporting and Escalation

    Any concerns or suspicions regarding potential conflicts of interest should be promptly reported to the designated conflict of interest officer or senior management for further investigation and resolution. This includes:

    • Reporting any instances of suspected or actual conflicts of interest, whether they involve clients, staff members, or third parties.
    • Escalating any unresolved conflicts of interest or ethical concerns to senior management or the appropriate regulatory authorities as necessary.

    Training and Awareness

    Averillaw Solicitors provides regular training and awareness programs to ensure that all staff members are aware of their obligations under this Conflict of Interest Policy and understand how to identify, prevent, and manage conflicts of interest effectively.

    Conclusion

    Averillaw Solicitors is committed to upholding the highest ethical standards and ensuring that conflicts of interest are identified, prevented, and managed effectively to protect the interests of our clients, our firm, and the integrity of the legal profession.

    This policy serves as a guide for identifying, preventing, and managing conflicts of interest to ensure the integrity and professionalism of our legal services.

     

     

    Date: 1 July 2025