A good attorneyclient relationship is a twoway street. Ideally, both parties work together to achieve the best possible outcome.When a party seeking legal advice consults an attorney at law and secures that advice, the relation of attorney and client is established prima facie. Rule 1.1 Competence. (a) A lawyer shall not intentionally, recklessly, with gross negligence, or repeatedly fail to perform legal services with competence. Formal Agreement: Often, the relationship officially begins when you sign a retainer agreement with the attorney. The two most crucial steps in the process are the initial contact and screening and the interview with the attorney. It depends on the Unauthorized Practice of Law (UPL) rules in the state where the client is located. 1 Advising or Assisting the Violation of Law Rule 1.3 Diligence Rule 1.4 Communication with Clients Rule 1.4. I am happy to help you out here.