Multistate Professional Responsibility Exam (MPRE) One-Sheet (2).pdf Flashcards
(48 cards)
What is required for the formation of the client-lawyer relationship?
A person manifests an intent to hire the lawyer and the lawyer agrees or fails to make it clear that he does not wish to take on the case.
Who decides the strategy in a client-lawyer relationship?
The lawyer decides the strategy.
What must a lawyer do if the client has diminished capacity?
The lawyer must try to maintain the client-lawyer relationship as far as reasonably possible.
Under what conditions must a lawyer withdraw from representation?
If the representation results in a violation of the MRPC, the lawyer’s condition impairs representation, or the lawyer is discharged by the client.
What does the mnemonic ‘RRR’ stand for in the context of lawyer withdrawal?
Give reasonable notice to the client, refund any unearned fee, return papers to the client.
What is the lawyer’s obligation regarding communication with the client?
Keep the client reasonably informed about the case and promptly comply with reasonable requests for information.
What are contingent fees and when must they be documented?
Fees based on the outcome of the case; require two writings—one at the beginning and one at the conclusion of the case.
In what matters are contingent fees not permitted?
Family law matters and criminal matters.
What is attorney-client privilege?
An evidentiary rule preventing the revelation of confidential communications between an attorney and a client.
What is the work product doctrine?
Material prepared by a lawyer for litigation is immune from discovery unless the opposing party shows substantial need.
What must a lawyer do regarding client confidentiality?
Not reveal information relating to the representation unless the client gives informed consent.
What are the exceptions to the confidentiality rule (mnemonic ‘CCCCCC’)?
- Certain death or harm
- Crime or fraud
- Compliance with rules
- Controversy between lawyer and client
- Court order
- Conflicts of interest
What is the rule regarding communications with represented persons?
A lawyer shall not communicate about the subject of representation with a person represented by another lawyer unless consent is obtained.
What must a lawyer do with a client’s funds?
Keep a client’s funds separate from his own.
What should a lawyer do if there is a dispute over claims?
Keep the disputed portion in the client trust account until resolved.
What is the burden of proof for admission to the bar?
The applicant must establish good moral character.
What must a lawyer do if they know another lawyer has committed a violation?
Report it unless protected by confidentiality.
What is the rule on the unauthorized practice of law?
A lawyer may delegate work to non-lawyers but must supervise it.
What are the requirements for multijurisdictional practice?
Services must have a reasonable relation to the lawyer’s practice and comply with specific conditions.
What is the rule regarding partnerships with non-lawyers?
A lawyer must not form a partnership with a non-lawyer if it constitutes the practice of law.
What must partners and supervisors ensure?
Make reasonable efforts that all lawyers and non-lawyer assistants follow the MRPC.
What is required for the sale of a law practice?
The entire practice area must be sold, clients notified, fees unchanged, and the seller must cease private practice.
What are the elements needed to prove negligence?
Duty, breach, cause, and harm.
What must a lawyer avoid in communications about legal services?
Communications must not be false or misleading.