Which course of action is described as appropriate when ethics concerns arise during a protracted matter?

• A. Seek guidance, assess conflicts, and consider withdrawal or seeking court direction when ethics issues arise.
• B. Immediately withdraw without consulting guidelines, regardless of conflicts.
• C. Continue representation and report ethics concerns only if required.
• D. Deny there are any ethics concerns to avoid action.

Answer: (A)

When ethics concerns show up in a long-running matter, the proper approach is to pause and obtain guidance, then reassess any conflicts and, if needed, withdraw or seek court direction. This sequence ensures you’re acting within professional duties, protects the client’s interests, and preserves the integrity of the process. If there are conflicts that can’t be resolved or safely managed, withdrawal or obtaining court direction helps ensure the representation remains lawful and ethical.

Denying or ignoring ethics concerns is inappropriate because it risks improper conduct and damaging consequences for both the client and the proceeding. Continuing without addressing the concerns or withdrawing without guidance also falls short of professional obligations. Reporting only if required after the fact misses the proactive step of ensuring ethical compliance throughout the matter.