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 Massachusetts, the attorney-client relationship is governed by rules that mandate attorneys to maintain a high standard of professional responsibility. These rules require that an attorney must always act in the best interests of their client, maintain the confidentiality of client communications, and provide competent, zealous representation within the legal and ethical boundaries set by the Massachusetts Rules of Professional Conduct. If an attorney in Massachusetts fails to adhere to these standards, they may face disciplinary action by the Board of Bar Overseers, which is responsible for attorney oversight in the state. Additionally, if an attorney's conduct falls below the standard of care and causes harm to the client, the attorney may be subject to a legal malpractice lawsuit. It is essential for clients to trust their attorneys and for attorneys to uphold their duties to foster a strong attorney-client relationship.