Which of the following is NOT a client decision?

• A. Commencement of representation
• B. Discovery strategy
• C. Settlement
• D. Take stand in criminal case

Answer: (B)

In attorney-client relationships, clients control decisions about objectives and outcomes of the case, while lawyers handle the strategy and tactics to pursue those goals. The decision to commence representation is a client decision because it’s about hiring counsel and starting the engagement. The decision to settle is also a client decision because it determines the resolution of the case and the rights being pursued. The decision to take the stand in a criminal case is a client decision because the defendant must decide whether to testify, even though counsel can advise and explain consequences.

Discovery strategy, however, is a matter of legal strategy and procedure decided by the attorney. It involves what requests to make, how to pursue evidence, and how to shape the discovery plan—choices within the lawyer’s control rather than the client’s. Therefore, the option that is not a client decision is discovery strategy.