What must an attorney do before withdrawing from a case?

An attorney must provide timely notice to the client and return unspent fees before withdrawing from a case. This obligation is grounded in the ethical standards expected from attorneys, which emphasize the importance of communication and transparency with clients. Notifying the client ensures they are aware of the withdrawal and can seek new representation if necessary, thereby facilitating a smoother transition in their legal matters.

Returning unspent fees further displays integrity and accountability, as it reassures the client that they are only charged for services rendered. This action reflects the attorney's responsibility to act in the best interests of their client, which includes safeguarding the client's financial interests as part of the professional relationship.

Other options, such as notifying the press or consulting with other attorneys, do not align with the fundamental ethical duties an attorney has to their client upon withdrawal from a case. Similarly, submitting a formal request to the bar association is not a requisite step in most situations when an attorney decides to withdraw from representing a client. The core focus here is about ensuring the client's understanding and ensuring all financial matters are handled appropriately.