Yes, but subject to reasonable warning to the client, the potential need for court approval, and the need to protect the client's interests.
A disengagement letter serves to formally notify a client that a professional service provider, such as a lawyer, is concluding their services. This letter is crucial for ensuring clarity and avoiding any misunderstandings about the ongoing nature of the relationship.
Rule 8.3 requires a lawyer to report misconduct only when the lawyer possesses unprivileged knowledge that raises a question as to any lawyer's honesty, trustworthiness, or fitness in other respects. Second, Rule 8.3 requires a lawyer to self-report.
The lawyer must warn the client before withdrawing under the circumstances. Paragraph (b)(6) permits a lawyer to withdraw with the consent of the client. Paragraph (b)(7) carries forward current rule 3-700(C)(3), which permits withdrawal if a lawyer is unable to work with co-counsel.
When a motion for a new trial is made upon the ground of newly discovered evidence, the defendant must produce at the hearing on the motion, in support thereof, the affidavits of the witnesses by whom such evidence is expected to be given, and if time is required by the defendant to procure such affidavits, the court ...
Even if the matter is not pending before a tribunal, the ethics rules of most states provide that a lawyer cannot withdraw until he or she has taken reasonable steps to avoid foreseeable prejudice to the rights of his client, such as giving notice to the client, allowing time for employment of other counsel, delivering ...
Ceasing to act Once you have taken on a client, you should not cease to act without good reason and without providing reasonable notice. If you do need to stop acting for a client, you should explain the client's options.
The decision to decline a representation is best to communicate that declination in writing. "Non-engagement letters" should clearly inform the prospective client that the law firm will not represent the prospective client in that matter and that he or she should not rely on the lawyer for any advice or legal action.
I met with you on _________, 20__, and have also reviewed the various copies of documents you provided me. I herewith return those documents to you for your use. I appreciate the confidence you have expressed in our firm, but for various reasons the firm has decided not to represent you in this matter.
A disengagement letter is especially critical when a lawyer decides not to continue past a specific stage in a case. The lawyer should send a disengagement letter to establish that the relationship is no longer continuing, and to refer the client to another lawyer.