During a court matter, people must rely on the objectivity and professionalism of the others involved. Defendants need the judge and jury to have an open-minded approach to the case. They rely on having a lawyer who is supportive.
Pursuing justice requires the participation of a neutral judge and jury members capable of analyzing the situation on its own merits. Defendants also need attorneys who intend to act in their best interests. Occasionally, defendants become aware after losing a trial that their experience with the justice system may not have been as fair as they may have expected. They may learn details about other parties involved in the process that indicate there was a conflict of interest at play.
What is a conflict of interest?
There are factors that can compromise the neutrality and reasoning ability of those involved in the legal process. Having a direct relationship with another person involved in the incident is one example of a concerning conflict of interest. If a jury member knows someone involved, they likely cannot approach the matter as objectively as they should.
There can also be financial conflicts of interest in cases where someone involved in the justice system has invested in a business or has a working relationship with someone involved in the case. Even prior exposure to certain types of activity could create a conflict of interest. Those whose loved ones have experienced similar circumstances may have a hard time remaining neutral.
Who might have a concerning conflict of interest?
Technically, anyone involved in the justice process could have a conflict of interest that compromises the integrity of a trial. However, conflicts of interest compromising the neutrality of the judge or members of the jury are of particular concern. Those who discover that their lawyers had a conflict of interest may question whether they received the professional representation they deserved.
When there is clear evidence of a significant conflict of interest, those involved in a legal matter may have grounds for an appeal. Reviewing the outcome of the trial, the role of the party with the conflict of interest and the nature of conflicts with a skilled legal team can help people evaluate whether they may be able to appeal an unfavorable court ruling.