What are the obligations of a lawyer when they cease representing a client?

When a lawyer ceases to represent a client, they have specific withdrawal obligations that must be adhered to in order to fulfill their ethical and professional responsibilities. These obligations ensure that the client is not left at a disadvantage and that the transition of representation is handled properly.

Withdrawal obligations typically include notifying the client of the withdrawal, providing a clear explanation for the decision if appropriate, and ensuring that the client's interests are protected throughout the transition. This means taking necessary steps to allow the client time to find alternative representation, returning any files and documents that belong to the client, and making sure that any outstanding matters are properly addressed.

By fulfilling these obligations, a lawyer not only complies with ethical guidelines but also reinforces the trust and professionalism expected in the attorney-client relationship. This helps maintain the integrity of the legal profession and safeguards the client's rights and interests during a potentially vulnerable time.

While terms like "transition duties" and "communicative responsiveness" might touch on aspects of a lawyer’s responsibilities during withdrawal, they do not capture the full scope of the formal obligations that are paramount in the context of ceasing representation. Negotiation ethics is more relevant to the conduct during negotiations rather than the withdrawal process itself. Thus, the term "withdrawal obligations" accurately describes