If a client offers a financial incentive to obtain favorable treatment, this would be considered what?

• A. A standard practice
• B. Improper influence
• C. A permissible negotiation tactic
• D. Irrelevant

Answer: (B)

Offering a financial incentive to obtain a favorable outcome is improper influence. In legal ethics, a lawyer must exercise independence and integrity, free from external inducements that could steer professional judgment or undermine the fairness of the proceedings. A client proposing money to secure a desired result tries to override the lawyer’s duty to act honestly and within the law, which is exactly what “improper influence” describes. This isn’t standard practice or a legitimate negotiation tactic; it’s a breach of ethical obligations and could expose both lawyer and client to sanctions. If such a situation arises, the lawyer should refuse the inducement and, if needed, consider terminating the relationship and reporting the matter as required.