What should an attorney do if a settlement offer is made to joint clients?

When a settlement offer is made to joint clients, the attorney has a responsibility to convey the offer to all clients involved and ensure that there is mutual agreement on how the settlement will be divided. This approach aligns with the duties of loyalty and communication that an attorney owes to clients.

Joint clients may have differing interests or perspectives on the settlement, and it is crucial that all parties are informed of the offer and the implications of accepting it. By ensuring mutual agreement on the division of the settlement, the attorney safeguards the interests of each client and prevents potential conflicts that may arise later. This practice also reinforces transparency in the attorney-client relationship, fostering trust and cooperation among the clients.

Furthermore, an attorney must avoid making unilateral decisions regarding a settlement that could disadvantage one client over another. Thus, conveying the offer and facilitating a discussion to ensure that all clients agree on the course of action is essential to maintaining professional responsibility and ethical standards in legal practice.