Conflict of Interest

Conflicts of Interest occur when a prosecutor’s personal, financial, political, or relational interests compromise, or appear to compromise, their impartial execution of official duties. These conflicts undermine prosecutorial neutrality and may violate both ethical rules and due process guarantees.

Scope:

  • Personal or Financial Interests: Investments, debts, gifts, or favors that could be influenced by case outcomes.

  • Familial or Relational Ties: When close family, friends, or adversaries are involved as defendants, victims, witnesses, or officers in a matter.

  • Political or Professional Gain: Charging or declining to charge cases in order to advance career prospects, protect allies, or secure political advantage.

  • Appearance of Impropriety: Even without actual bias, situations where a reasonable observer would question impartiality.

Examples:

  • Failing to recuse when prosecuting a case involving a family member or political donor.

  • Bringing charges against a political rival to gain electoral advantage.

  • Withholding disclosure of a financial interest in a private laboratory used for forensic testing.

Related Standards:

  • ABA Model Rule 1.7 & 1.11 (conflicts of interest and special responsibilities of government lawyers).

  • Due Process Clause (ensures fair trials and neutral prosecution).

  • Brady/Giglio Obligations (require disclosure of impeachment evidence, including conflicts).

Consequences:
Undisclosed or unmanaged conflicts may result in reversal of convictions, dismissal of charges, bar discipline, civil liability, and erosion of public trust.