---
title: "Check that client papers a tool holds are surrendered when the representation ends"
url: "https://ailawframework.com/obligations/client-facing-and-access-to-justice-ai-tools/check-that-client-documents-a-tool-holds-are-returned-when-asked/united-states"
type: "task_jurisdiction_version"
site: "AI Law Framework"
id: "A43-JU20261022-25-US"
practice_area: "Client-facing & access-to-justice AI tools"
tier: "yellow"
lawyer_review: "required"
jurisdictions: ["US"]
last_reviewed: "2026-10-22"
---

# Check that client papers a tool holds are surrendered when the representation ends

> From the request and the file list, list the papers and property the tool holds and the date of the request. Do not delete or send them.

Canonical page: https://ailawframework.com/obligations/client-facing-and-access-to-justice-ai-tools/check-that-client-documents-a-tool-holds-are-returned-when-asked/united-states  
Last reviewed: 2026-10-22

Site index for agents: https://ailawframework.com/llms.txt

## Key facts

| Fact | Value |
| --- | --- |
| Practice area | [Client-facing & access-to-justice AI tools](https://ailawframework.com/obligations/client-facing-and-access-to-justice-ai-tools.md) |
| Human involvement | Yellow: Lawyer and AI draft together |
| How AI is used | From the request and the file list, list the papers and property the tool holds and the date of the request. Do not delete or send them. |
| What the lawyer must review | Model Rule 1.16(d) says that upon termination the lawyer shall, to the extent reasonably practicable, protect the client's interests, including surrendering papers and property to which the client is entitled and refunding any advance of fee or expense that has not been earned or incurred. The lawyer may retain papers relating to the client to the extent permitted by other law. Comment 9 says papers may be retained as security for a fee only to the extent permitted by law. Rule 1.15(d) requires prompt delivery of funds or other property that the client or third person is entitled to receive. The lawyer decides what is delivered and what is retained. |
| Written for | United States |
| Applies to | [Check that client documents a tool holds are returned when asked](https://ailawframework.com/obligations/client-facing-and-access-to-justice-ai-tools/check-that-client-documents-a-tool-holds-are-returned-when-asked.md) |

## Checking plan

- What the AI does: From the request and the file list, list the papers and property the tool holds and the date of the request. Do not delete or send them.
- Basis: Checked against the linked sources on 22 October 2026. Confirm the current instrument before reliance.

## Notes

- The text opened is the ABA Model Rule. The rule adopted in the lawyer's jurisdiction controls where it differs.
- The Model Rules text that was opened does not state a period after which client papers may be destroyed. Do not add one.

## Sources

- [ABA Model Rule 1.16, Declining or terminating representation](https://www.americanbar.org/groups/professional_responsibility/publications/model_rules_of_professional_conduct/rule_1_16_declining_or_terminating_representation/) (checked 2026-10-22)
- [ABA Model Rule 1.16, Comment](https://www.americanbar.org/groups/professional_responsibility/publications/model_rules_of_professional_conduct/rule_1_16_declining_or_terminating_representation/comment_on_rule_1_16_declining_or_terminating_representation/) (checked 2026-10-22)
- [ABA Model Rule 1.15, Safekeeping property](https://www.americanbar.org/groups/professional_responsibility/publications/model_rules_of_professional_conduct/rule_1_15_safekeeping_property/) (checked 2026-10-22)

*Practice guidance for planning and review. Confirm current primary sources and the requirements of the actual matter. This is general information, not legal advice.*