What must an attorney do if a client fails to pay fees after reasonable warning?

When a client fails to pay fees after reasonable warning, the attorney has an ethical obligation to withdraw from the representation. This decision is grounded in the idea that an attorney must have a reasonable financial arrangement with their client in order to effectively represent them. If the client does not meet their financial obligations despite warnings, this can affect the attorney's ability to represent the client adequately and can be grounds for withdrawal, as it constitutes a good cause.

Withdrawing from the case allows the attorney to ensure that they can fulfill their professional responsibilities without compromising their own financial viability or the quality of representation that the client deserves. The attorney must follow the proper process for withdrawal as set out in the California Rules of Professional Conduct, which usually involves notifying the client, obtaining the court's permission if necessary, and taking steps to return any unearned fees or property.

This option aligns with the ethical standards that govern the attorney-client relationship, emphasizing the importance of mutual compliance in financial matters for the representation to be effective.