What does Rule 1.2(a) state regarding a lawyer’s role in advising clients?

Rule 1.2(a) emphasizes the importance of a lawyer's duty to respect a client's autonomy in making decisions about their representation. This principle highlights that clients hold the authority to determine the objectives of their representation, and the lawyer's role is primarily to provide informed legal advice and guidance to assist clients in making those decisions.

By stating that a lawyer shall abide by a client’s decisions concerning representation, the rule underscores the lawyer's obligation to act in accordance with the client's wishes, as long as those decisions are lawful and within ethical boundaries. This fosters a collaborative attorney-client relationship where the lawyer supports the client’s goals while ensuring the client is well-informed about the potential legal consequences of their choices.

This approach reflects the fundamental respect for client autonomy in the legal profession and aligns with the ethical obligation to provide competent representation while empowering clients to make their own informed decisions regarding their legal matters.