A lawyer admitted to practice in California is subject to the disciplinary authority of California, unless the lawyer’s conduct occurs in another jurisdiction.

Rule 2.4 of Professional Conduct requires a lawyer to perform legal services with competence.

A lawyer shall not, act as an advocate in a trial in which the lawyer is likely to be a witness unless the lawyer’s testimony relates to an uncontested issue or matter, the lawyer’s testimony relates to the nature and value of legal services rendered in the case, or the lawyer has obtained informed written consent from the client. If the lawyer represents the People or a governmental entity, the consent shall be obtained from the head of the office or designee of the head of the office by which the lawyer is employed.

Ordinarily it is the duty of a lawyer to accept decisions an organization’s constituents make on behalf of the organization, even if the lawyer questions their utility and prudence.

In an ex parte proceeding where notice to the opposing party in the proceeding is not required or given and the opposing party is not present, a lawyer shall inform the tribunal of all material facts known to the lawyer that will enable the tribunal to make an informed decision, whether or not the facts are adverse to the position of the client.

In representing a client, a lawyer shall exercise professional judgement and render artful, disingenuous advice, when doing so appears to be in the clients interest.

A person who directly or through an authorized representative, consults a lawyer for the purpose of retaining the lawyer or securing legal service or advice from the lawyer in the lawyer’s professional capacity, is a prospective client.

Raul is the owner of R’s Typing and Legal Services. Sam goes to Raul and says “I have to file bankruptcy because my house went into foreclosure. Where should I start?” Raul takes Sam to a wall filled with clear boxes of forms and says “Pick the form that you want to use.” When Sam starts to pull the Chapter 11 form out of the box, Raul shakes his head very slightly. Sam puts the form back. Then Sam reaches for the Chapter 7 form and glances sideways at Raul. He smiles. Raul:

Pertaining to declining or terminating representation, if the lawyer’s mental or physical condition renders it unreasonably difficult to carry out his/her/their representation effectively he/she/they can still represent the client for up to a six month period.

Rule 2.4 of Professional Conduct requires a lawyer to perform legal services with competence.