What should a lawyer do if they know a criminal defendant is about to give false testimony?

When a lawyer knows that a criminal defendant is about to give false testimony, the appropriate course of action aligns with the duty of the lawyer to uphold the integrity of the legal system and to advocate for truthfulness. Attempting to dissuade the client from providing false testimony upholds the lawyer's ethical obligation to the court, as it emphasizes the importance of honesty in legal proceedings. If the defendant insists on lying despite the lawyer’s attempts to dissuade them, the lawyer may seek to withdraw from the case. This step is necessary to protect the lawyer's professional integrity and to avoid complicity in the deception, which could lead to serious consequences for the lawyer and jeopardize the fairness of the trial.

While other actions may seem relevant, they do not align with the ethical obligations a lawyer has. Encouraging a defendant to lie or allowing false testimony undermines the justice system. Contacting the court to report the defendant's intentions is also not appropriate, as it may violate client confidentiality and the attorney-client privilege. Instead, prioritizing ethical conduct and the pursuit of justice through proper channels is essential.