In which scenario may an attorney make decisions regarding financial issues without consulting the client?

An attorney may make decisions regarding financial issues without consulting the client in situations where the client cannot afford deposition and discovery costs. This scenario recognizes that there are practical limitations in the litigation process, where financial constraints can prevent a client from pursuing or continuing legal actions effectively.

In this case, the attorney has the ethical responsibility to manage the case within the client's financial means. If a client is unable to cover certain costs necessary for the case's progression, the attorney might take steps to address this lack of funds—such as seeking alternatives or making strategic decisions that prioritize the client’s interests without needing to confer with the client on every detail. This is especially relevant in situations where time is of the essence and delays due to consultation could be detrimental to the client's position.

In contrast, the other scenarios do not provide sufficient justification for an attorney to act without client consultation. An attorney should always strive to involve the client, ensuring that they are informed and have a say in decisions that significantly impact their case, especially concerning settlements or critical strategic choices.