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Ethics/Professional Responsibility,
Law Practice

Oct. 7, 2019

Balancing ethical duties when a client’s claims lack merit

What ethical obligations arise when an attorney is required to withdraw from representation because the client’s claim(s) lack merit? Do ethical obligations preclude the attorney from settling the action before withdrawing from representation in such a situation?

Shawn Shaffie

Partner
Parker Shaffie LLP

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Balancing ethical duties when a client’s claims lack merit
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What ethical obligations arise when an attorney is required to withdraw from representation because the client's claim(s) lack merit? Do ethical obligations preclude the attorney from settling the action before withdrawing from representation in such a situation? The recently published Formal Opinion Number 2019-198 of the State Bar of California Standing Committee on Professional Responsibility and Conduct purports to answer these questions.

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