What is the responsibility of an attorney of record once they have appeared?

The responsibility of an attorney of record, once they have entered an appearance in a case, is to represent the party in all subsequent matters related to that case. This includes handling all legal pleadings, attending court hearings, and ensuring that the client's interests are properly advocated throughout the legal process. The attorney is obligated to act in the best interests of their client and to keep them informed about the proceedings.

An attorney of record establishes a formal relationship with the court and the client, creating a duty to continue representation unless formally withdrawn. This comprehensive representation is essential for maintaining continuity in legal proceedings and safeguarding the rights and interests of the party involved.

While an attorney may have the ability to delegate tasks to other attorneys or support staff, the primary responsibility still lies with the attorney of record. They cannot simply choose to represent a party only in specific types of matters, such as criminal cases, nor can they limit their representation based on jurisdictional considerations alone. Understanding the breadth of their responsibility is crucial for both the attorney and the client to ensure effective legal representation.