Question: At the end of the movie, how did Kevin's decision to not represent Getty's make him lose his case and how could he possibly be disbarred for making such a decision?
Bishop73
12th Jun 2020
The Devil's Advocate (1997)
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Answer: In short, a lawyer may not withdraw from a case if doing so will adversely affect the interest of client. At this point in the trial, if he withdrew, it could prejudice Getty in the eyes of the jury (i.e. they might think he's guilty because his lawyer doesn't want to defend him anymore). Source: Florida RPC 4-1.16 Declining or Terminating Representation.
Bishop73
But, could his refusal to represent Getty any longer allow Getty to get him disbarred?
The State Bar Association would be the entity that would determine if Kevin will be disbarred. All Getty could do is bring grievances to the Association, but it would be a matter of public record that Kevin withdrew in the middle of trial that and it would be more likely that the Judge reports Kevin to the Bar. Getty's recourse of action would be to sue Kevin, but that wouldn't result in disbarment.
Bishop73