The Client-Lawyer Relationship

It forms when a person reasonably relies on the lawyer to provide legal services and the lawyer knows or should know of that reliance — express agreement is not required.

Yes. If the person reasonably believes a relationship exists and the lawyer fails to dispel that belief, the lawyer may owe duties such as confidentiality and competence.

The client decides the objectives; the lawyer decides the means used to pursue them, in consultation with the client.

Whether to plead, whether to waive a jury trial, and whether the client will testify — these are reserved to the criminal defendant.

Whether to settle the matter — the decision to accept or reject a settlement offer belongs to the client.

Yes, if the limitation is reasonable under the circumstances and the client gives informed consent.