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In depth
A conflict check is the process of verifying that a lawyer can represent a client without a conflict of interest — i.e., that the lawyer's representation of this client will not be adversely affected by the lawyer's duties to another current or former client.
For CBD cases, conflict checks are particularly important because: (1) multiple family members may apply for the same citizenship (and may have conflicting interests regarding document sharing, fees, or case strategy), (2) Ancestra may have represented a related party in a prior case, and (3) the opposing party in a judicial CBD case may be a current or former client.
Ancestra performs conflict checks before accepting any new case. If a conflict is identified, we may decline the case or seek a conflict waiver from the affected clients.
Related terms
A retainer is a formal agreement between a client and a lawyer establishing the scope of legal services and the fee arrangement, required before Ancestra begins work on a CBD case.
An engagement letter is a written agreement specifying the terms of legal services, synonymous with retainer in CBD practice.
A fixed fee is a flat-rate pricing model where the total cost of legal services is agreed in advance, in contrast to hourly billing, used by Ancestra for all CBD cases.
Due diligence is the investigation and verification of facts before accepting a CBD case, including verifying the client's ancestry and the availability of documentary evidence.
An eligibility assessment is the written evaluation of whether a person qualifies for CBD, produced by Ancestra after the initial consultation and due diligence.
An intake form is the structured questionnaire that Ancestra uses to collect information from prospective CBD clients, the first step in the case process.