In the last article we discussed the importance of incorporating risk management into your practice of law, in particular with respect to client and matter selection and laying out the terms of your engagement. Risk management does not end with the signing of the engagement agreement, however. Attorneys should consistently consider and address risks arising in their practice throughout the life of each and every representation.

Client Communication

Attorneys should remain in regular communication with their clients, managing client expectations and keeping clients updated on developments that impact earlier assessments of the matter. Pursuant to the Rules of Professional Conduct, lawyers are required to promptly inform the client of any decision or circumstance requiring the client’s informed consent; reasonably consult with the client about the means by which the client’s objectives are to be accomplished; keep the client reasonably informed about the status of the matter; promptly comply with reasonable requests for information; and consult with the client about any relevant limitation on the lawyer’s conduct when the lawyer knows that the client expects assistance not permitted by the rules or other law. See Pa. R.P.C. 1.4(a).