Which of the following is an accepted practice under the ABA Model Rules regarding lawyer fees?

Providing a clear explanation of fees and charges to clients is integral to maintaining transparency and fostering trust in the attorney-client relationship, which is heavily emphasized in the ABA Model Rules of Professional Conduct. The Model Rules require that lawyers communicate the basis of their fees to clients, ensuring that clients have a full understanding of what they are being charged for and under what circumstances fees might change.

This practice helps to prevent misunderstandings and disputes regarding fees, and it aligns with the broader ethical duty lawyers have to act competently and with integrity. By clearly outlining their fee structure, attorneys can ensure that clients know what to expect, which is especially important in fostering informed consent and autonomy among clients.

Other practices mentioned do not align with the ethical standards established by the ABA Model Rules. For instance, charging fees without a written agreement can lead to confusion and is generally discouraged. Similarly, setting fees that are unreasonable or excessive violates the obligation to charge reasonable fees, as outlined in the Model Rules. Discriminating fees based on a client's background undermines fairness and equality in the legal profession and contravenes the principle of justice. Thus, the practice of providing clear fee explanations stands out as the only ethical and accepted approach under the ABA Model Rules.