How is the disqualification of one lawyer within a firm handled according to the rules?

The disqualification of a lawyer within a firm typically extends to all lawyers in the same firm due to the principle of imputed disqualification. This principle ensures that if one lawyer is disqualified from representing a client due to conflicts of interest or other ethical concerns, no lawyer in that firm can represent that client in the same matter.

This approach is based on the necessity of maintaining client confidentiality and protecting the integrity of the legal process. The rationale is that lawyers within the same firm often share information and resources, so allowing other lawyers in the firm to represent the client might risk the confidential information of the affected party.

Consequently, when a lawyer is disqualified for any reason, the entire firm is also considered disqualified from representing that client in the relevant matter. This rule helps prevent the potential for conflicts of interest and ensures compliance with ethical standards across the firm.