09-09-2025, 02:38 AM
Under Illinois Rules of Professional Conduct Rule 1.2, the client:
Determines the objectives of representation.
Has the final say on plea decisions, testifying, and whether to assert constitutional rights.
Must be consulted on strategy, even if the lawyer handles technical decisions.
And under Rule 1.4, your lawyer must:
Keep you reasonably informed.
Explain matters so you can make informed decisions.
Consult with you about the means used to achieve your goals.
So no, your lawyer doesn’t get to “decide everything” unilaterally. If they’re ignoring your direction, that’s not strategy—it’s a breach of duty.
Determines the objectives of representation.
Has the final say on plea decisions, testifying, and whether to assert constitutional rights.
Must be consulted on strategy, even if the lawyer handles technical decisions.
And under Rule 1.4, your lawyer must:
Keep you reasonably informed.
Explain matters so you can make informed decisions.
Consult with you about the means used to achieve your goals.
So no, your lawyer doesn’t get to “decide everything” unilaterally. If they’re ignoring your direction, that’s not strategy—it’s a breach of duty.