What is a conflict of interest?

A conflict of interest arises in situations where an individual's personal interests—such as financial incentives, relationships, or other personal benefits—have the potential to compromise or influence their official duties and responsibilities. This condition often applies to professionals like lawyers, judges, public officials, and corporate executives, who are expected to act in the best interests of their clients or constituents. Maintaining a clear boundary between personal interests and professional obligations is crucial to ensuring ethical behavior and trust within various fields, especially in law and governance.

The other options do not accurately define a conflict of interest. A legal action against the government refers to a situation where a party sues the government, which is unrelated to personal interests affecting official duties. A type of criminal offense involves illegal activities and is distinct from the concept of conflicts of interest, which centers around ethics rather than legality. Lastly, a case involving multiple defendants pertains to legal proceedings and does not relate directly to the influence of personal interests on official roles.