B-1, r. 3 - Code of ethics of advocates

Section 3.03.04 Disposition versions

2012-09-01

3.03.04. Unless it is at an inopportune time, an advocate may, for serious reasons, cease representing the client, provided he does everything which is immediately necessary to prevent a loss.

The following shall, in particular, constitute serious reasons:

(a)  loss of the client’s confidence;

(b)  the fact that he has been deceived by the client or his failure to co-operate;

(c)  inducement by the client to perform unfair or immoral acts;

(d)  persistence by the client to continue a futile or vexatious proceeding;

(e)  the fact that the advocate is placed in a situation of conflict of interest or in a circumstance whereby his professional independence could be called in question;

(f)  refusal by the client to acknowledge an obligation respecting costs, disbursements and fees or, after reasonable notice, to make to the advocate provision therefor.

When a client induces an advocate to perform an illegal or fraudulent act, the advocate shall, after having advised the client of the illegal or fraudulent nature of the act and of his withdrawal from the file if the client persists, cease representing the client.

R.R.Q., 1981, c. B-1, r. 1, s. 3.03.04; O.C. 351-2004, s. 32; O.C. 731-2009, s. 1.