When must frivolous cases be rejected by lawyers?

Lawyers have an ethical obligation to ensure that they do not bring forward claims that are frivolous. A claim is considered frivolous if it lacks any legal basis or is intended to solely harass or annoy the other party. When a lawyer determines that a client's motive is harassment, it is imperative for them to reject the case because pursuing it would not only waste judicial resources but could also lead to potential sanctions against the lawyer for ethical violations.

Accepting a case primarily motivated by harassment undermines the integrity of the legal process and can contribute to a culture of litigation that is abusive and retaliatory in nature. Thus, understanding the client’s intentions and ensuring that the claims have a sound legal foundation is crucial for the lawyer's adherence to professional responsibility. This principle helps maintain the proper function of the legal system and ensures that legal services are not misused.