How do you withdraw from representing a client?

Asked by: Chelsea Walter  |  Last update: September 11, 2025
Score: 4.8/5 (1 votes)

When a lawyer has been appointed to represent a client, withdrawal ordinarily requires approval of the appointing authority. See also Rule 6.2. Similarly, court approval or notice to the court is often required by applicable law before a lawyer withdraws from pending litigation.

Can a representation be withdrawn?

Yes, but subject to reasonable warning to the client, the potential need for court approval, and the need to protect the client's interests. Attorneys may withdraw from representation for the client's nonpayment subject to court approval and the specific facts and circumstances.

What is a sample letter to withdraw from representation?

[City / State / Zip Code] Dear [Client Name]: In accordance with Local Rule ______________, this letter shall serve a notice of our intent to withdraw from our representation of you in _______________________ [case name, cause number]. As you know, we are terminating our representation due to ________________________.

How do I cancel my attorney representation?

Be Clear: Be direct and get straight to the point. Clearly state that you are terminating the attorney and briefly state the reasons why. Additionally, the termination letter should state that the attorney should immediately stop working on any pending matters.

How do you decline representation?

The decision to decline a representation is best to communicate that declination in writing. "Non-engagement letters" should clearly inform the prospective client that the law firm will not represent the prospective client in that matter and that he or she should not rely on the lawyer for any advice or legal action.

Mandatory Withdrawal from Representation - Model Rule 1.16(a)

24 related questions found

How do you respectfully decline a client?

18 Ways To Tactfully Turn Down A Client Request
  1. Be Upfront And Honest. ...
  2. Clearly Communicate Your Boundaries. ...
  3. Share Alternative Options With Care. ...
  4. Explain Your Commitment To Integrity. ...
  5. Share Your Guiding Principles. ...
  6. Provide A Reason Based On Your Expertise. ...
  7. Explain The Potential Negative Impact. ...
  8. Ask For Clarification.

How do I respectfully decline?

1. Practice
  1. Thanks for thinking of me. I can't right now/I can't make it/I can't attend.
  2. I'm at capacity right now, so I will decline. Thanks for understanding.
  3. No, not at this time.

How do you tell a lawyer you no longer need their services?

Always terminate the relationship in writing.

Even if you fire your attorney in a verbal exchange, you should follow up by sending a written termination letter. Be sure to send the letter by “certified mail with return receipt requested” so there's proof your lawyer received the letter.

When may representation be withdrawn?

Even if the withdrawal will be adverse to the client the attorney may still withdraw for a number of reasons: The client is engaged in illegal or fraudulent activity. The client fails to pay fees as agreed. The financial burden on the attorney of continuing the representation is too great.

Can I change my mind after signing a retainer agreement?

You may have signed a retainer agreement or a contract with an attorney, believing that he or she was the best choice, only to have communication break down or decide that you are simply not happy with your representation. Fortunately, California law permits you to terminate your contract for legal representation.

How do I write a request to withdraw?

Dear [Recipient`s Name], I am writing this letter to inform you of my intent to withdraw from the agreement signed on [date] regarding [brief description of the agreement]. While I understand that this decision may cause some inconvenience to you, I hope you can appreciate that it is necessary for me to take this step.

What is a drop letter from an attorney?

A form disengagement letter (also known as a withdrawal letter or a termination of engagement letter) sent by an attorney or law firm to a client when withdrawing from representation in a litigation matter.

How do I write a letter of discontinuation?

Through the Head of the Department

Now, I wish to discontinue my course due to ____________________ (reason). Kindly permit me to discontinue my course.

Can you drop a client on retainer?

By signing a retainer, that does not mean that a client is joined at the hip with his or her lawyer until the bitter end. This holds true no matter what type of case, or what type of retainer the client has signed. A client may fire their current lawyer at any time and hire better representation.

What is a termination of representation letter?

This is where the significance of an end of representation letter, also known as a closing letter to a client from an attorney, or simply a closing letter to a client, comes to the fore. It serves as a professional and ethical marker to indicate the end of a specific attorney-client relationship.

What happens if a representation is false?

For fraudulent and negligent misrepresentation, the claimant may claim rescission and damages. For innocent misrepresentation, the court has a discretion to award damages in lieu of rescission; the court cannot award both (see section 2(2) of the Misrepresentation Act 1967).

When can a representation be altered or withdrawn?

A representation may be altered or withdrawn before the insurance is effected, but not afterwards. 356. The completion of the contract of insurance is the time to which a representation must be presumed to refer. 357.

Can a lawyer drop a client for non-payment?

Paragraph (b)(5) expands the breadth of current rule 3-700(C)(1)(f) by adopting the concepts in ABA Model Rule 1.16(b)(5). Paragraph (b)(5) permits withdrawal when a client breaches any agreement or obligation to the lawyer, including those not related to an agreement or obligation for fees or expenses.

What does it mean when a lawyer says withdrawn?

Withdrawal is mandatory, or representation must be declined if: The representation will result in violation of the rules of professional responsibility or other law; The lawyer's physical or mental condition materially impairs the lawyer's ability to represent the client; or, The lawyer is discharged by the client.

What not to say to your lawyer?

Eight Things You Shouldn't Say to Your Lawyer
  • Do Not Say Anything to Your Attorney That Is Not True. ...
  • Do Not Exaggerate Your Injuries When Talking to Your Lawyer. ...
  • Do Not Tell Your Lawyer to Act On Your Behalf and Take Other Action Without Their Awareness.

How do I decline legal representation?

Every time you want to decline to represent a prospective client, you should use a non-engagement letter. Otherwise, you risk the possibility that the prospective client could mistakenly think you're their attorney on a matter.

Can I fire my lawyer and get a new one?

A: In California, you have the right to change attorneys at any stage of your case, even if you have signed a contingency fee agreement.

How to refuse a client politely?

How to Say No To Customers: 7 Polite Refusal Strategies
  1. Understand and Empathize with Customer Needs. ...
  2. Explain Why You're Saying No. ...
  3. Prioritize the Customer Relationship in Refusals. ...
  4. Treat Every “No” Like The First “No” of The Day. ...
  5. If Your Customer Is Hot, Keep Your Cool. ...
  6. Turn That “No” Into a “Yes”

How do you say "no" professionally?

How to say no in any situation – 20 phrases
  1. I appreciate the offer/invite, but I can't commit.
  2. I'm honored by the offer/invites, but can't.
  3. I'm flattered you considered me, but unfortunately I'll have to pass this time.
  4. I appreciate the offer/invite, but I am completely booked.
  5. Thank you for thinking of me, but I can't.

How to say no in a smart way?

Example phrases to help you say no
  1. "May I take a day to get back to you?" ...
  2. "I can do it for you this time, but I can't do it for you every time. ...
  3. "It does not [or will not] work for me to ... " ...
  4. "I can't, but here's another option for you." ...
  5. "It's not good for me now, but let's look ahead in our calendars." ...
  6. "Sorry, no."