If a lawyer discovers a false statement was made, what must they do?

• A. The lawyer may ignore false statements to avoid delays.
• B. The lawyer must correct false statements as soon as possible.
• C. The lawyer may delay correction until after the hearing.
• D. The lawyer must inform the court but not the client.

Answer: (B)

The main idea tested is the lawyer’s duty to correct false statements promptly to protect the integrity of the proceedings. When a false statement is discovered, a lawyer must take immediate steps to rectify the record so that the truth is before the court and the client is properly informed. Acting quickly prevents the deception from influencing decisions and reduces the risk of unfair prejudice, and it fulfills the lawyer’s obligation to be honest with both the court and the client.

Delaying or avoiding correction undermines the administration of justice. Ignoring the false statement, or waiting until after the hearing, allows the misleading impression to stand and can amount to facilitating deception. Merely informing the court without addressing the client or without taking steps to correct the record is similarly incomplete. The best approach is to correct the false statement as soon as possible while ensuring the client is appropriately informed and the court is adequately apprised of the truth.