What should an attorney do if their client insists on committing a crime that requires the attorney's assistance?

When a client insists on committing a crime that requires the attorney's assistance, the appropriate action for the attorney to take is to withdraw from representing the client. This is rooted in the ethical obligations that attorneys have under the law. An attorney cannot facilitate or assist in a client's plan to engage in criminal behavior, as doing so would violate the attorney's professional responsibilities and could lead to severe legal repercussions for both the attorney and the client.

Withdrawing from representation allows the attorney to maintain their ethical integrity and avoid complicity in the potential crime. Furthermore, attorneys have a duty to uphold the law and cannot represent clients in matters involving illegal conduct. By withdrawing, the attorney removes themselves from a situation that could compromise their ability to practice law ethically.

While other options may seem viable in different contexts, they do not adequately address the severity of the situation where a client is intent on committing a crime. For example, continuing to assist the client would directly contravene the lawyer's ethical duties, and reporting the client may not be necessary or appropriate unless required by law. Ignoring the client's demands fails to fulfill the attorney’s responsibility to act in a manner that upholds ethical standards and the law. Thus, withdrawal is the most appropriate course of action.