When may a lawyer limit the scope of representation?

A lawyer may limit the scope of representation when the client gives informed consent. This principle is rooted in the understanding that clients have the right to make decisions regarding their representation, including the areas in which they want the lawyer to assist them. The Model Rules of Professional Conduct emphasize the importance of client autonomy and informed decision-making.

When a client provides informed consent, it implies that they are fully aware of the implications of narrowing the scope of representation and agree to it voluntarily, having been sufficiently informed about the potential risks and benefits. This might occur in various situations, such as when a client can only afford to pay for limited services or wishes to handle certain matters independently.

The other options do not align with the established ethical guidelines. While independent decision-making by a lawyer (the first option) or compliance with a court's instruction (the fourth option) may be relevant to a lawyer's conduct, they do not necessarily provide the basis for limiting representation. Involvement in a criminal act (the third option) generally raises ethical concerns that require careful navigation and may not support limiting representation but rather imposes an obligation on the lawyer to uphold the law and their professional duties.