If a trial court denies a lawyer's request to withdraw from representation, what is the lawyer's duty?

• A. To continue representation unless the court orders otherwise.
• B. To withdraw anyway.
• C. To file immediately for reconsideration.
• D. To notify clients of termination.

Answer: (A)

When a court denies a lawyer’s request to withdraw, the lawyer must continue to represent the client unless the court orders otherwise. The court’s ruling controls whether withdrawal is permissible, and the attorney owes the client loyalty and continuity of representation. Therefore, the immediate duty is to stay on the case and comply with the court’s decision. If the lawyer believes withdrawal is still warranted, they can seek relief through appropriate procedural or ethical avenues, but they cannot abandon the client simply because they want to. Notifying the client of termination isn’t appropriate while the court has denied withdrawal, since there is no authorized termination in effect.