"Lawyers and clients often develop years-long relationships during which clients and lawyers cultivate connections that often transcend the traditional attorney-client framework. During this relationship, clients may ask for favors in the form of favorable billing terms or other advantages that the lawyer is uniquely able to provide. Although it is acceptable to perform such favors for clients, lawyers should not do so under the assumption that it will result in additional work."
"However, clients do not always remember the lawyer who gave them favorable terms when there is an additional matter that needs attention. Earlier in my career, I worked on a very small matter for a long-term client. The matter was worth barely four figures, so I was surprised that the plaintiff was able to secure a lawyer who made it worth it to pursue the claim in court."
Long-term lawyer-client relationships often create connections beyond the traditional attorney-client framework, and clients sometimes request favors like favorable billing or employment opportunities for referrals. Performing such favors is acceptable, but lawyers should not assume favorable treatment will generate follow-on work. Many lawyers take small matters on advantageous terms expecting future business, yet clients do not always remember or refer additional matters to the favoring lawyer. Examples show small low-value matters can be picked up by other attorneys who hope to gain future work, leaving the initial favoring lawyer disappointed. Offering internships or jobs to referrers or their relatives is a common, unrewarded favor.
Read at Above the Law
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