Ace the Ontario Barrister and Solicitor Exam 2025 – Unleash Your Legal Superpowers!

A lawyer's primary responsibility when a settlement is reached is to ensure that the client understands the terms of the settlement agreement. This involves clearly explaining the implications, benefits, and any drawbacks of the agreement to the client. It's essential for the lawyer to confirm that the client comprehends what they are agreeing to, including any rights they may be waiving or obligations they might be undertaking as part of the settlement. This ensures that the client can make an informed decision about whether to accept the terms.

While maintaining confidentiality is important and seeking court approval may be necessary in certain circumstances, these actions do not substitute for the fundamental duty of ensuring the client's understanding. Finalizing an agreement without client input would violate the ethical obligations lawyers have to their clients, as it bypasses the client's role in the decision-making process regarding their legal matters. Thus, the correct focus is on ensuring the client understands the settlement terms.