Is there a general duty to represent another lawyer in New York ethics?

• A. No duty
• B. There is a duty
• C. Duty only in criminal cases
• D. No rule

Answer: (A)

There is no general obligation to represent another lawyer under New York ethics. The rules focus on your duties to your own client and to the integrity of the legal process, not on a blanket duty to take on another attorney’s matters. You may choose to represent a colleague if you have no conflicts and you can maintain confidences without harming your current clients. If representing a fellow attorney would create a conflict or require you to disclose information from another client, you must decline. Some situations might involve voluntary pro bono work or co-counsel arrangements when there’s no adverse interest, but such arrangements are optional, not mandatory.