Recorded Interactive Webinar: Ethical Crossroads in Property Law: Managing Conflicts, Confidentiality and Client Pressures

Property transactions can place lawyers at the frontline of ethical dilemmas. Whether balancing duties to multiple parties, managing conflicts of interest in conveyancing, or navigating client pressures to “cut corners,” property practitioners face real risks to their professional standing and compliance obligations. This session examines the common – and often subtle – ethical issues arising in property practice, providing practical guidance for lawyers to safeguard themselves while serving their clients. It covers:

• Conflicts of interest in property transactions – acting for multiple parties, identifying when informed consent is not enough, and recent regulator guidance.
• Managing client pressure – how to respond when clients ask for shortcuts (e.g., backdating documents, overlooking disclosure, or bypassing verification of identity).
• Confidentiality and information sharing – risks when dealing with families, developers, agents, or related parties.
• Upholding integrity in property documentation – the ethical consequences of backdating, “fixing” execution errors, or overlooking defects in contracts, leases, or transfers.
• Case studies and disciplinary decisions – lessons from recent tribunal and court cases where property lawyers faced sanctions.
• Practical strategies – checklists, systems, and communication tools to embed ethical decision-making in daily practice.