Certified Legal Professional (CLP) Practice Exam

What should an attorney do if they are fired by a client yet the court denies their request to withdraw from representation?

1. The attorney must cease all work for the client

2. The attorney can continue to represent the client until permitted to withdraw

3. The attorney should file a complaint against the court's decision

4. The attorney must hand over the case to local counsel

The correct answer is: The attorney can continue to represent the client until permitted to withdraw

When an attorney is terminated by a client but their request to withdraw is denied by the court, the attorney is ethically and legally obligated to continue representing the client until they are formally allowed to withdraw. This obligation arises from the duty of loyalty and the professional responsibility to fulfill contracts until they are legally dissolved. The attorney's role includes adhering to court rules and maintaining the integrity of the legal process, which often requires them to continue acting on the client's behalf. This continuity ensures the client is not unduly disadvantaged by the abrupt termination of legal representation, particularly in ongoing matters that may still require attention before a proper withdrawal can be executed. In practice, the attorney should communicate with the client about the situation and prepare to comply with relevant deadlines and obligations under the law. The attorney can explore options for obtaining permission to withdraw at a later date or even seek alternative solutions that align with ethical considerations while respecting the court's ruling.