Which type of decisions is an attorney authorized to make on behalf of the client?

An attorney is authorized to make procedural and tactical decisions related to case management on behalf of the client. This responsibility is rooted in the attorney-client relationship and the duty of the attorney to act in the best interests of the client while providing competent representation.

Procedural and tactical decisions encompass matters such as the strategy for the case, what motions to file, how to conduct discovery, and the manner of presenting evidence. These decisions are generally within the realm of the attorney's professional judgment, allowing them to make choices that will help effectively advocate for the client in the context of the law and legal procedure.

In contrast, decisions about whether to sue or settle involve fundamental matters of the client's rights or interests, which require explicit client approval. Financial decisions made without the client's consent would violate ethical obligations, as attorneys must secure their clients' agreement when it comes to financial transactions affecting them. Finally, decisions that involve criminal liability must also be made with the client's engagement, as these decisions can significantly affect a person's rights, freedoms, and future.