The ABA Model Rules, Explained
Every Model Rule of Professional Conduct and canon of the Model Code of Judicial Conduct in plain English: what it requires, the exceptions that matter, and how the MPRE tests it.
Article 1
- Model Rule 1.1: Competence
- Model Rule 1.2: Scope of Representation and Allocation of Authority Between Client and Lawyer
- Model Rule 1.3: Diligence
- Model Rule 1.4: Communications
- Model Rule 1.5: Fees
- Model Rule 1.6: Confidentiality of Information
- Model Rule 1.7: Conflict of Interest: Current Clients
- Model Rule 1.8: Conflict of Interest: Current Clients: Specific Rules
- Model Rule 1.9: Duties to Former Clients
- Model Rule 1.10: Imputation of Conflicts of Interest: General Rule
- Model Rule 1.11: Special Conflicts of Interest for Former and Current Government Officers and Employees
- Model Rule 1.12: Former Judge, Arbitrator, Mediator or Other Third-Party Neutral
- Model Rule 1.13: Organization as Client
- Model Rule 1.14: Client with Diminished Capacity
- Model Rule 1.15: Safekeeping Property
- Model Rule 1.16: Declining or Terminating Representation
- Model Rule 1.17: Sale of Law Practice
- Model Rule 1.18: Duties to Prospective Client
Article 2
Article 3
- Model Rule 3.1: Meritorious Claims and Contentions
- Model Rule 3.2: Expediting Litigation
- Model Rule 3.3: Candor Toward the Tribunal
- Model Rule 3.4: Fairness to Opposing Party and Counsel
- Model Rule 3.5: Impartiality and Decorum of the Tribunal
- Model Rule 3.6: Trial Publicity
- Model Rule 3.7: Lawyer as Witness
- Model Rule 3.8: Special Responsibilities of a Prosecutor
- Model Rule 3.9: Advocate in Nonadjudicative Proceedings
Article 4
Article 5
- Model Rule 5.1: Responsibilities of Partners, Managers, and Supervisory Lawyers
- Model Rule 5.2: Responsibilities of a Subordinate Lawyer
- Model Rule 5.3: Responsibilities Regarding Nonlawyer Assistance
- Model Rule 5.4: Professional Independence of a Lawyer
- Model Rule 5.5: Unauthorized Practice of Law; Multijurisdictional Practice of Law
- Model Rule 5.6: Restrictions on Right to Practice
- Model Rule 5.7: Responsibilities Regarding Law-Related Services
Article 6
Article 7
Article 8
Model Code of Judicial Conduct
- Judicial Conduct Canon 1: Upholding the independence, integrity, and impartiality of the judiciary, and avoiding impropriety and its appearance
- Judicial Conduct Canon 2: Performing the duties of judicial office impartially, competently, and diligently
- Judicial Conduct Canon 3: Conducting personal and extrajudicial activities to minimize the risk of conflict with judicial obligations
- Judicial Conduct Canon 4: Refraining from political or campaign activity inconsistent with the independence, integrity, or impartiality of the judiciary