I have been practicing law for many years and have a very difficult personal injury case. I have spent substantial time on this case and have a very reasonable and fair offer on the table. The clients have rejected the offer; I have filed a lawsuit and am proceeding. I have now been discharged by the clients. Apparently, the new lawyer tells them the case is worth a lot more and he can get more money and I moved the case too slowly. All this is false. What are my obligations?
Unfortunately, if the client has truly discharged the attorney, then the lawyer has to respect the client’s wishes. That is why the law is still a profession and not a business. Rule of Professional Conduct 1.16 requires a lawyer who is discharged to cooperate and be sure there is no prejudice to the client. If the lawyer is entered of record, then the lawyer must petition to withdraw.
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