Model Rule 1.14 concerns clients with diminished capacity and requires the lawyer to do what?

• A. Take reasonable steps to protect the client's interests and manage the matter in light of diminished capacity
• B. Withdraw from representation immediately
• C. Ignore capacity and proceed normally with the case
• D. Notify the court and stop representing the client

Answer: (A)

When a client’s capacity to make decisions is diminished, the lawyer must protect the client’s interests and manage the matter with the client’s well-being in mind. The key idea is to keep the representation going as much as possible while taking reasonable steps to safeguard the client, such as staying in contact, keeping the client reasonably informed, seeking the client’s input about goals, and, if needed, obtaining appropriate protective measures (for example, consulting with family or, when necessary, pursuing guardianship or other protection) to prevent substantial harm. This approach respects the client’s autonomy while recognizing the risk that diminished capacity can pose, rather than withdrawing immediately or ignoring the client’s capacity.