Under Rule 1.2, what must a lawyer obtain before representing a client?

In accordance with Rule 1.2, a lawyer must obtain the client’s informed consent before proceeding with representation. This requirement emphasizes the importance of communication and understanding in the attorney-client relationship. Informed consent signifies that the client has been adequately informed about the nature of the representation and any potential risks or conflicts, and that the client agrees to the terms after understanding those implications.

Obtaining informed consent ensures that the client is actively participating in decisions about their legal representation. It protects the client’s autonomy and promotes transparency in the lawyer-client relationship. This principle is particularly significant in situations where there might be potential conflicts of interest, or where a lawyer intends to limit the scope of the representation.

Options such as a written contract, a referral from another attorney, or a fee agreement do not encompass the fundamental requirement of informed consent. While these elements may be important in establishing the terms of representation or in ensuring proper ethical practice, they do not replace the necessity of securing informed consent from the client regarding the representation itself.