Final answer:
Sheridan's attempt to represent both parties in a contract negotiation is considered a conflict of interest, which is ethically problematic in the field of law.
Step-by-step explanation:
Sheridan, a lawyer who is starting out in her career, is anxious to please her clients, and in a contract negotiation, she tries to represent both parties.
This situation is often referred to as a conflict of interest. In the practice of law, it is ethically problematic for attorneys to represent two parties with potentially competing interests without proper disclosure and consent from both.
This is because an attorney must be able to provide zealous representation to their client, which can be compromised when the lawyer's duties to another client conflict. Furthermore, Sheridan's actions could potentially lead to legal actions against her if the representation affects the interests of either party adversely.