How should a lawyer respond to a client's requests that are illegal or unethical?

When faced with a client’s requests that are illegal or unethical, a lawyer has a professional obligation to uphold the law and ethical standards. The correct response involves advising the client against such requests, as compliance would not only violate the lawyer’s ethical duties but could also lead to legal repercussions for both the attorney and the client.

Lawyers are bound by codes of professional conduct that typically require them to avoid assisting clients in actions that are illegal or that would contravene ethical rules. By advising the client against pursuing illegal or unethical actions, the lawyer helps uphold the integrity of the legal profession and the legal system itself. Additionally, if the client insists on proceeding in a manner that the lawyer believes is unethical or unlawful, the lawyer may seek to withdraw from representation. Withdrawal becomes a necessary step to protect both the lawyer’s own professional reputation and the interests of justice.

This approach not only reinforces the safety of the legal representation but also serves to educate the client about the possible consequences of their wishes, providing them with a clearer understanding of the legal framework surrounding their issues. Engaging in strategies that involve ignoring or documenting risky requests without proper action does not fulfill the lawyer’s ethical obligations and could lead to more significant issues down the line.