What process must a legal representative follow when deciding to discontinue representing a client?

When a legal representative chooses to discontinue representing a client, the proper course of action is to follow a formal withdrawal from representation. This process is essential to ensure that the legal rights of the client are preserved and that there is a smooth transition regarding their case.

Withdrawing from representation involves several key steps, including notifying the client in a timely manner and providing them with adequate information to understand the situation. The legal representative also has ethical obligations under the rules of professional conduct, which often require them to take specific actions to protect the client's interests upon withdrawal. This may include providing the client with the opportunity to seek new representation and allowing for sufficient time for that transition.

Failure to follow this process can lead to potential legal and ethical ramifications for the legal representative, including allegations of abandonment or malpractice. Therefore, withdrawal from representation, which involves these careful considerations and formalities, is the appropriate answer.

Other options, while related to aspects of the legal profession, do not capture the comprehensive steps necessary for a legal representative to ethically and effectively discontinue representation of a client. For instance, simply resigning from a firm or notifying the court without the full withdrawal process neglects critical obligations that protect the client's interests.