May 16, 2026
Rule 1.3New York Rules of Professional Conduct / ABA Model Rules
Diligence
Rule Text
A lawyer shall act with reasonable diligence and promptness in representing a client.
What Constitutes a Violation
Rule 1.3 violations occur when attorneys neglect client matters, fail to pursue cases with reasonable promptness, or allow matters to stagnate without adequate reason. Common violations include: attorneys who accept cases and then fail to take any action for months or years; lawyers who miss court deadlines due to failure to calendar or monitor; practitioners who fail to follow up on submitted applications or filings; and attorneys who allow statutes of limitations to expire on viable claims. Diligence violations frequently accompany communication failures under Rule 1.4 — attorneys who fail to act often also fail to tell clients what is happening.
Typical Discipline
Rule 1.3 violations typically result in sanctions commensurate with the harm caused. Missed deadlines that destroy client claims often result in serious discipline. Prolonged neglect across multiple client matters — the pattern of taking fees and doing nothing — typically results in suspension or disbarment. Rule 1.3 violations are among the most common bases for both bar complaints and malpractice claims.
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Did Your Attorney Violate Rule 1.3?
If you believe your attorney violated Rule 1.3 — Diligence — you may have grounds for a bar complaint. Our guide explains the process.
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