1.16: Declining or Terminating Representation

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Questions and Answers

When can a lawyer withdraw from representing a client?

If the client persists in a criminal or fraudulent course of action (correct)
If the client agrees to fulfill all obligations to the lawyer
If the representation is financially beneficial to the lawyer
If the client is satisfied with the lawyer's services

Under what circumstances can a lawyer withdraw without material adverse effects on the client's interests?

If the client fails to fulfill obligations to the lawyer
If the representation violates the law
If the representation poses a financial burden on the lawyer
If the client insists on actions considered repugnant by the lawyer (correct)

What is a valid reason for a lawyer to terminate representation according to Rule 1.16?

The representation results in financial gain for the lawyer
The client agrees with all actions proposed by the lawyer
The client expresses gratitude for the lawyer's services
The lawyer's physical or mental condition impairs their ability to represent the client (correct)

In what situation can a lawyer terminate representation based on financial reasons?

If continuing representation poses an unreasonable financial burden on the lawyer (A) Signup and view all the answers

When can a lawyer withdraw if a client uses their services to perpetrate a crime or fraud?

When other good cause for withdrawal exists (D) Signup and view all the answers

Under what conditions can a lawyer withdraw without negatively affecting a client's interests?

When continuing representation involves criminal or fraudulent conduct by the client (B) Signup and view all the answers

What is a lawyer required to do if a client demands that the lawyer engage in conduct that is illegal or violates the Rules of Professional Conduct?

Decline or withdraw from the representation. (B) Signup and view all the answers

When ordered by a tribunal to continue representation, what must a lawyer do?

Continue representation regardless of good cause for termination. (A) Signup and view all the answers

Under what circumstance is a lawyer not obliged to decline or withdraw from representation?

If the client suggests illegal conduct. (D) Signup and view all the answers

What should a lawyer do upon termination of representation to protect the client's interests?

Surrender papers and property to which the client is entitled. (C) Signup and view all the answers

What indicates that a representation in a matter is ordinarily completed?

When the agreed-upon assistance has been concluded. (D) Signup and view all the answers

What should a lawyer consider before accepting representation?

Whether it can be performed competently and without improper conflict of interest. (B) Signup and view all the answers

In which situation is a lawyer justified to withdraw from representation as per the text?

If the client refuses to abide by the terms of an agreement relating to the representation. (D) Signup and view all the answers

Under what circumstances can a lawyer withdraw without having to be associated with criminal or fraudulent conduct?

If withdrawal would materially prejudice the client due to past misuse of services. (D) Signup and view all the answers

When is a lawyer not required to associate with a client's conduct even if they do not further it?

Misuse of the lawyer's past services by the client. (A) Signup and view all the answers

What action may a lawyer take if a severely incapacitated client is about to discharge them?

Seek protective action and help the client consider consequences. (B) Signup and view all the answers

If a client insists that the lawyer engage in conduct that is illegal, when should the lawyer decline or withdraw from representation?

Immediately upon the client's insistence. (B) Signup and view all the answers

In the context of a client suggesting fraudulent actions, why might a lawyer still consider continuing representation?

To protect the client's interests by guiding them away from the suggestion. (A) Signup and view all the answers

When facing financial burden due to representation, under what circumstances can a lawyer terminate representation?

If continuing would result in undue financial strain on the lawyer. (D) Signup and view all the answers

What is a crucial step a lawyer must take upon termination of representation to protect a client's interests?

Hand over all papers and property to the client right away. (C) Signup and view all the answers

If a lawyer fails to fulfill their obligations as outlined in Rule 1.16, what could be a consequence?

The lawyer may face disciplinary action. (C) Signup and view all the answers

When a lawyer declines or withdraws from representation based on illegal conduct demanded by the client, what should be the primary concern?

Protecting the client's rights and preventing harm. (B) Signup and view all the answers

In what situation can a lawyer withdraw from representing a client as per Rule 1.16?

The client insists on taking actions that are criminal or fraudulent. (D) Signup and view all the answers

When can a lawyer withdraw from representing a client without negatively affecting the client's interests?

If there is good cause for withdrawal. (B) Signup and view all the answers

What may lead a lawyer to terminate representation due to unreasonable financial burden?

Client causing undue financial strain on the lawyer. (C) Signup and view all the answers

Under what circumstances can a lawyer be justified in withdrawing if a client persists in actions that are repugnant to the lawyer?

The client insists on criminal or fraudulent activities. (A) Signup and view all the answers

When is a lawyer allowed to terminate representation if a client has used the lawyer's services to perpetrate a crime or fraud?

When there is good cause for withdrawal. (D) Signup and view all the answers

What could lead to a lawyer terminating representation based on the failure of a client to fulfill their obligations?

Client persisting in actions the lawyer considers repugnant. (D) Signup and view all the answers

When is a lawyer justified to withdraw from representation if the client insists on taking actions that the lawyer finds repugnant?

When the client persistently engages in criminal or fraudulent actions. (A) Signup and view all the answers

Under what circumstance can a lawyer terminate representation based on financial reasons?

The lawyer incurs excessive court costs. (B) Signup and view all the answers

What should a lawyer consider before terminating representation to protect the client's interests?

The consequences for the client and taking necessary protective action. (A) Signup and view all the answers

In what situation is a lawyer not obliged to decline or withdraw from representation?

When the lawyer reasonably believes the client is involved in criminal or fraudulent conduct. (D) Signup and view all the answers

What action may a lawyer take if a severely incapacitated client is about to discharge them and it may be seriously adverse to the client's interests?

The lawyer should help the client consider consequences and take necessary protective action. (C) Signup and view all the answers

When can a lawyer withdraw from representing a client according to Rule 1.16?

When the lawyer reasonably believes that the client persists in criminal or fraudulent actions. (D) Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Withdrawal and Termination of Representation

Lawyers may withdraw from representing a client when continuing would violate legal or ethical standards.
Circumstances allowing withdrawal without material adverse effects include client consent, successful completion of the matter, or significant changes in personal circumstances of the lawyer.
Valid reasons for termination under Rule 1.16 can include the client’s insistence on illegal or unethical actions or the lawyer’s inability to represent competently.

Financial Considerations for Withdrawal

A lawyer can terminate representation due to financial reasons when ongoing representation creates an unreasonable financial burden on the lawyer.
If a client fails to meet financial obligations such as payment for services rendered, a lawyer may withdraw, provided this doesn’t harm the client’s interests.

Criminal or Fraudulent Conduct

Withdrawal is permitted if a client uses the lawyer’s services to commit or further a crime or fraud.
A lawyer must avoid associating with unethical conduct and may withdraw even if they do not actively further a client’s illegal actions.

Client Demands and Ethical Obligations

Lawyers must decline or withdraw when a client insists on conduct that is illegal or violates professional conduct rules.
In case of a tribunal order to continue representation, a lawyer is required to uphold the order unless other grounds for withdrawal arise.

Protecting Client's Interests upon Termination

Upon termination of representation, a lawyer must take steps to protect the client's interests, such as notifying them and returning documents.
If representation is deemed completed when all tasks are fulfilled to the client’s satisfaction, and no further actions are needed.

Considerations Before Accepting Representation

Lawyers should consider potential conflicts of interest, client credibility, and the implications of the client's actions before accepting representation.

Justified Withdrawal Situations

Lawyers can withdraw if a client insists on actions repugnant to the lawyer’s principles, or if the client’s actions involve continued criminal or fraudulent behavior.
In cases where a client, possibly dealing with severe incapacitation, discharges the lawyer in a detrimental manner, the lawyer may intervene to protect the client.

Consequences of Failing Obligations

Failing to meet obligations outlined in Rule 1.16 may lead to disciplinary action against the lawyer for unethical practice.
The primary concern when withdrawing due to a client's illegal demands is to ensure that no harm comes to the client’s legal standing or interests.

Conclusion

Lawyers must balance their ethical obligations with client needs, exercising the right to withdraw under clearly defined circumstances while ensuring client interests are safeguarded.

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Description

This quiz covers the ethical requirements for lawyers when terminating a representation, including giving notice to the client and allowing time for employment of other counsel. It also addresses the obligation to continue representation if ordered to do so by a tribunal.