Rule 32:5.6 Restrictions on Right to Practice

Lawyers cannot agree to limit their own right to practice law in the future just to close a deal or settle a case. For example, if a law firm partnership breaks up, the firm cannot make a departing lawyer promise to stop practicing law or avoid competing for clients, except when it comes to retirement benefits. Retirement agreements are allowed to include some limits, since that is a normal part of stepping away from practice.

The same rule applies when lawyers settle a case for a client. A lawyer cannot agree, as part of a settlement, to stop representing other clients with similar claims against the same defendant in the future. This kind of deal would protect the defendant from future lawsuits by limiting which lawyers are willing or able to take on similar cases.

This rule exists to protect the public. It makes sure clients keep the freedom to choose the lawyer they want, and it stops lawyers from trading away their independence or future clients' access to legal help in exchange for money or a business deal.