Representation of Multiple Defendents in General District Court

Memorandum

To:     Criminal Defense Attorneys
From:  General District Court Judges
Re:     Representation of Multiple Defendants

Effective immediately, in accordance with Rule of Professional Conduct 1.7, a lawyer who wishes to represent multiple defendants in a criminal case before the General District Courts of the County of Roanoke and the Cities of Roanoke and Salem is required to:

1. Certify, in writing, that the lawyer has explained to each client the implications of the common representation and the advantages and risks involved and that the lawyer reasonably believes that the representation of one client will not adversely affect the relationship with the other client(s); and
2. Obtain, in writing, the consent of each client.

Click here for a form that can be used for this purpose.