What must an attorney do after withdrawing from a client-lawyer relationship?

After withdrawing from a client-lawyer relationship, an attorney is obligated to return all property related to the client. This requirement is rooted in the ethical obligation of attorneys to protect the interests of their clients. When a lawyer withdraws, it is essential to ensure that the client’s rights are preserved and that they have access to any materials or documents they need, which may include case files, evidence, or other property relevant to their representation.

Returning the client's property helps facilitate a smooth transition to another representation if the client chooses to do so or to ensure that they can proceed without undue hardship. This obligation is a key principle in maintaining trust and ensuring the integrity of the legal profession. Additionally, it reflects the lawyer's duty to the client and adherence to ethical standards established by professional conduct rules.

In contrast, simply leaving the case or informing the court without ensuring the client has their property would not fulfill the attorney's ethical duties and could potentially harm the client’s interests. Likewise, starting a new case with a different client does not address the obligations stemming from the previous representation.