Rule 1.2 Scope of Representation and Allocation of Authority Between Client and Lawyer
Client-lawyer Relationship
Rule Text
(a) Subject to paragraphs (b) and (c), a lawyer shall abide by a client's decisions concerning the objectives of representation and, as required by Rule 1.4, shall consult with the client as to the means by which they are to be pursued. A lawyer may take such action on behalf of the client as is impliedly authorized to carry out the representation. A lawyer shall abide by a client's decision whether to settle a matter. In a criminal case, the lawyer shall abide by the client's decision, after consultation with the lawyer, as to a plea to be entered, whether to waive jury trial and whether the client will testify.
(b) A lawyer may limit the scope of the representation if the limitation is reasonable under the circumstances and the client gives informed consent.
(c) A lawyer shall not counsel a client to engage, or assist a client, in conduct that the lawyer knows is illegal or fraudulent, but a lawyer may discuss the legal consequences of any proposed course of conduct with a client and may counsel or assist a client to make a good faith effort to determine the validity, scope, meaning or application of the law.
(d) Notwithstanding paragraph (c), a lawyer may counsel and assist a client in a proposed course of conduct that the lawyer reasonably believes is permitted under Oregon law. In the event Oregon law conflicts with federal law or the law of another jurisdiction, the lawyer may also advise the client regarding such conflict and the potential legal consequences.
Amendment history: Adopted 01/01/05. Amended 02/19/15: Paragraph (d) added. Amended 01/01/24: Paragraph (d) amended. Corrected 05/01/25: Paragraph (d) corrected.