What is the primary expectation of a lawyer in terms of client communication?

The primary expectation of a lawyer in terms of client communication is to promptly inform the client of any decisions requiring informed consent. This requirement is rooted in the principles of the ABA Model Rules of Professional Conduct, which emphasize the lawyer's duty to communicate effectively with clients.

Informed consent means that before a lawyer takes any action that could significantly impact a client’s rights or interests, the lawyer must ensure the client understands the implications of that action and agrees to it. This involves not only timely communication but also providing ample information for the client to make well-informed decisions regarding their case.

While regular communication about all legal options can be beneficial, it is not always necessary for every situation. On the other hand, keeping a client uninformed can lead to distrust and potential harm, as can limiting communication to only critical updates, which can prevent clients from having a full understanding of their case's progress or implications. Therefore, the obligation to keep the client informed about significant decisions reinforces their role in the legal process and respects their autonomy in decision-making.