When responding to client questions, what is the appropriate approach?

• A. Provide comprehensive legal advice in every response to ensure clarity.
• B. Refuse to answer any question until the lawyer is available.
• C. Direct clients to contact the opposing counsel for information.
• D. Provide routine, non-legal information and remind that legal details must come from the lawyer.

Answer: (D)

When responding to client questions, provide routine, non-legal information and remind that legal details must come from the lawyer. This approach keeps communications accurate and ensures that clients receive the correct legal analysis from the person who is licensed to provide it. You can share general process steps, timelines, what documents are typically needed, how to schedule a call, and where to find firm resources. If a question requires legal interpretation or advice, guide the client to await guidance from the lawyer or offer to arrange a consult so the attorney can provide the formal guidance. This balances helpful information with professional responsibility, avoiding unnecessary legal conclusions or misstatements.