This template has been developed to assist Victorian lawyers practising criminal law to effectively assess and manage conflicts of interest. Law practices can adapt this template to meet their needs, including putting it onto their practice letterhead.

If you are proposing to act on behalf of two or more clients in related matters, use this template to support client conversations and record your client’s informed consent. It covers the key information you should provide to your client about the perceived or actual conflict of interest where required.

How to use the form:

1. Fill out all sections of the form in as much detail as possible (separate forms must be completed for each client)
2. Have a discussion with your client about the conflict of interest
3. Give them a copy of the completed assessment and consent form along with a client note on conflicts of interest in criminal practice
4. Allow them time to review the form and client note and seek their own independent advice
5. If they decide to provide informed content, have them sign the form

This template can be used in conjunction with our:

• Guidance on conflicts of interest in criminal practice
• Template: conflicts of interest in criminal practice template client note

For more information and resources also see our conflict of interest web page.