Opinion ID: 1521565
Heading Depth: 2
Heading Rank: 1

Heading: DR2-110(B)(4): Failure to Withdraw

Text: Bar Counsel alleged, and the Hearing Committee found, that Respondent failed to withdraw from employment after his client discharged him. Respondent stated to Ms. Houston that he was still representing her on three separate occasions after she had discharged him. Respondent also communicated with Ms. Houston's doctor and to the third party carrier as Ms. Houston's attorney after his discharge. Respondent contended that Ms. Houston could only discharge him for cause or after a fee agreement was reached. The Board agrees with the Hearing Committee's findings and conclusions with respect to Respondent's failure to withdraw after his discharge. A client has an absolute right to discharge an attorney at any time. Moreover, a client need not demonstrate cause prior to discharging an attorney. The reasons for the discharge, however, may affect the fees owed to the attorney. See Kaushiva v. Hutter, 454 A.2d 1373 (D.C.), cert. denied, [464 U.S. 820], 104 S.Ct. 83 [78 L.Ed.2d 93] (1983). Respondent's communications concerning Ms. Houston with her doctor and the third party carrier after his discharge by Ms. Houston evidence his failure to withdraw from employment in violation of DR2-110(B)(4). The Hearing Committee credited Ms. Houston's testimony that she had discharged Respondent and rejected Respond's contrary testimony. The Board concludes that the record contains clear and convincing evidence that Respondent violated DR2-110(B)(4).