Law Society of Ontario (LSO) Paralegal Practice Exam

What must a paralegal do if a client's retainer is terminated before task completion?

1. Submit a report to the Law Society

2. Notify the client verbally

3. Notify the client in writing

4. Ignore the retainer termination

The correct answer is: Notify the client in writing

When a client's retainer is terminated before the completion of tasks, it is crucial for a paralegal to notify the client in writing. This written notification serves several important purposes. First, it provides a clear and formal record of the termination, protecting both the paralegal and the client in case of any future disputes regarding the services rendered or obligations owed. Second, written communication ensures that the client fully understands that their representation is ending and clarifies any final steps they may need to take moving forward, such as seeking new legal representation or retrieving their documents. Other forms of notification, such as verbal communication, may not provide the same level of clarity or documentation. Merely ignoring the termination undermines the professional responsibilities and ethical obligations that a paralegal has towards their client. Additionally, submitting a report to the Law Society is not typically required solely for the termination of a retainer, as this is more relevant in situations involving conduct that may breach legal or ethical standards. Therefore, informing the client in writing is the most responsible and effective course of action in this scenario.