May 16, 2026
Rule 1.4New York Rules of Professional Conduct / ABA Model Rules
Communication
Rule Text
A lawyer shall: (a) promptly inform the client of any decision or circumstance with respect to which the client's informed consent is required; (b) reasonably consult with the client about the means by which the client's objectives are to be accomplished; (c) keep the client reasonably informed about the status of the matter; (d) promptly comply with a client's reasonable requests for information; and (e) consult with the client about any relevant limitation on the lawyer's conduct.
What Constitutes a Violation
Rule 1.4 violations are among the most commonly reported in every state bar's annual discipline statistics. Attorneys who do not return phone calls, fail to update clients on case status, neglect to transmit settlement offers, or simply go silent on active matters violate Rule 1.4. The rule applies to all communications, not just those the attorney considers important — clients have the right to know what is happening in their cases. Rule 1.4 violations frequently accompany other misconduct: attorneys who are neglecting matters (Rule 1.3) often also stop communicating, and attorneys who have mishandled client funds (Rule 1.15) may go silent to avoid discovery.
Typical Discipline
Rule 1.4 violations alone typically result in lighter sanctions — private admonition or public censure — when no other misconduct is present. However, communication failures that compound other violations, or that leave clients unable to protect their own interests, can contribute to more serious disciplinary outcomes. Communication failures in high-stakes matters (pending criminal trials, immigration hearings, custody proceedings) are treated more seriously.
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Did Your Attorney Violate Rule 1.4?
If you believe your attorney violated Rule 1.4 — Communication — you may have grounds for a bar complaint. Our guide explains the process.
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