Check that a tool does not end a client's matter without a permitted reason

Who does what

Checklist

1. A solicitor with designated responsibility for a matter must ensure completion of the legal services unless the client has otherwise agreed, the practice is discharged by the client, the practice terminates for just cause and on reasonable notice, or the engagement ends by operation of law.
2. Just cause includes instructions or circumstances that would cause a breach of ethical duties, a circumstance where the solicitor is no longer able to act in the client's best interests, and a circumstance where the client has not provided information requested that is required to fulfil a statutory obligation. The rule says just cause includes these. It does not say they are the only cases.
3. Where the client is required to stand trial for a serious criminal offence, failure to arrange payment of costs will not normally justify termination unless written notice of intention was served a reasonable time before the trial date or the start of the sittings, giving at least 7 days to make satisfactory arrangements, and appropriate notice was given to the registrar of the court in which the trial is listed. Where a grant of legal aid is withdrawn, the practice may terminate by reasonable notice in writing so the client has a reasonable opportunity to make other arrangements.
4. The lawyer decides whether the reason is one the rule allows. The message is not sent until then.

Sources

• Legal Profession Uniform Law Australian Solicitors' Conduct Rules 2015 (NSW) · 2026-10-22

These are suggested working checks. Confirm the required checking with the responsible lawyer before work starts; the checking approach does not establish permission to use AI.