The best attorney-client relationships are based on trust and confidence. When you seek advice or representation from a lawyer, the lawyer is bound by strict standards of professional responsibility. For example, your lawyer must (1) act in your best interests; (2) keep your communications confidential; and (3) represent you competently, zealously, and within the bounds of the law and the rules of professional conduct. If your lawyer violates these rules, the lawyer may be disciplined by the state bar or face a legal malpractice lawsuit.

In Iowa, the attorney-client relationship is governed by principles that mandate attorneys to uphold their clients' best interests, maintain confidentiality, and provide competent and zealous representation within legal and ethical boundaries. These standards are enforced by the Iowa Rules of Professional Conduct. Attorneys in Iowa are required to act with diligence and promptness when representing a client (Rule 32:1.3), keep client information confidential (Rule 32:1.6), and avoid conflicts of interest that could impair their ability to represent their clients effectively (Rule 32:1.7). If an attorney in Iowa fails to adhere to these professional standards, they may face disciplinary action by the Iowa Supreme Court Attorney Disciplinary Board. Additionally, clients may pursue a legal malpractice lawsuit if they suffer harm as a result of their attorney's negligence or misconduct. Such a lawsuit would need to establish that the attorney breached their duty of care to the client and that this breach directly caused the client's damages.