When must a lawyer decline or terminate representation?

A lawyer must decline or terminate representation when continuing to represent a client would result in a violation of the rules of professional conduct or the law. This principle is rooted in the ethical obligations that lawyers have to uphold legal standards and ensure that their practices do not compromise their integrity or the justice system.

When a lawyer finds that representing a client would lead to unethical behavior, such as advancing a frivolous claim, engaging in deceit, or otherwise violating a legal rule, they have both an ethical duty and, often, a legal obligation to cease representation. This protects not only the client and the legal profession but also the court's processes and the interests of justice.

While uncooperative clients, personal issues, and weak cases may present challenges, they do not necessarily compel a lawyer to terminate representation. The key factor is whether the lawyer's actions could lead to a violation of ethical standards or laws, which is a crucial concern that supersedes other considerations in a legal practice.