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1 - Lawyers must treat you with courtesy

You are entitled to be treated with courtesy and consideration at all times by your attorney and the other lawyers and personnel in your attorney’s office.

 

2 - You should always expect to receive your lawyer's best judgment

You are entitled to your lawyer’s best independent professional judgment and undivided loyalty that is not compromised by any conflicts of interest.
 

3 - You are entitled to a competent lawyer

You are entitled to an attorney capable of handling your legal matter competently and diligently, in accordance with the highest standards of the profession. If you are not satisfied with how your matter is being handled, you have the right to withdraw from the lawyer-client relationship at any time (court approval may be required in some matters and your attorney may have a claim against you for the value of services rendered to you up to the point of discharge).
 

4 - Determine reasonable fees with your attorney

You are entitled to be charged a reasonable fee and to have your lawyer explain at the outset how the fee will be computed and the manner and frequency of billing. You are entitled to request and receive a written itemized bill from your attorney at reasonable intervals. You may refuse to enter into any fee arrangement that you find unsatisfactory. In the event of a fee dispute, you may have the right to seek arbitration; your attorney will provide you with the necessary information regarding arbitration in the event of a fee dispute, or upon your request.
 

5 - Your lawyer must keep you informed of your status

You are entitled to be kept informed as to the status of your matter and to request and receive copies of papers. You are entitled to sufficient information to allow you to participate meaningfully in the development of your case.
 

6 - Your questions and concerns addressed promptly by your lawyer

You are entitled to have your questions and concerns addressed in a prompt manner and to have your telephone calls returned promptly.

 

7 - Your legitimate objectives must be respected by your attorney

You are entitled to have your legitimate objectives respected by your lawyer, including whether or not to settle your matter (court approval of a settlement is required in some matters).
 

8 - Ethical conduct by your attorney

You are entitled to have your lawyer conduct himself or herself ethically in accordance with the Code of Professional Responsibility.
 

9 - Your right to privacy with your lawyer

You have the right to privacy in your dealings with your attorney and to have your secrets and confidences preserved to the extent permitted by law.
 

10 - Lawyers can not refuse service based on prejudices

You may not be refused representation on the basis of race, creed, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, age, national origin or disability.