Hypo 1. John and Mary know Lawyer Larry from attending the same church. They are friendly but not close friends. John discovers that Mary intends to move to a new job out of state. Since Mary owns a co-op apartment in a very desirable area of town, John wishes to buy it from her. So, John approaches Lawyer Larry after church and asks Larry to negotiate a deal with Mary. John also intends to hire Larry to obtain a mortgage for him, review the contract of sales from the seller and represent him at the closing. Before Larry can contact Mary, Mary calls Larry asking him if he can represent her in selling her apartment. In that role, Larry will write-up the sales contract, and will represent her in a closing. Mary tells Larry that she wants at least $ 1 million and will give him a 6% commission as well as paying all legal fees.
1. Can Lawyer Larry represent both John and Mary at the same time? Why or why not?
2. Does this scenario present any way for Lawyer Larry to stay in the picture? Why or why not?
3. What NYS Rules govern this scenario?