What is required for a lawyer's disclosure regarding crime or fraud under the ABA?

A lawyer's disclosure regarding crime or fraud under the ABA Model Rules is primarily guided by the obligation to prevent substantial injury to others. Specifically, if a lawyer becomes aware of a client’s intention to commit a crime or fraud that is likely to result in substantial injury to another person or entity, the lawyer is required to take reasonable steps to disclose that information, if necessary, to prevent the harm.

This obligation stems from the duty to act with integrity and to uphold the legal standards of practice. The focus here is on the lawyer's belief that the disclosure is necessary to prevent substantial harm, reflecting the ethical responsibility of protecting the interests of third parties who could be affected by the client’s misconduct.

The other choices do not align with the requirements set forth by the ABA. For instance, the notion that the client must be compelled to reveal their actions (first option) oversimplifies the issue, as it is not solely about compulsion but rather about the lawyer's proactive role in preventing harm. Similarly, the requirement for pre-approval from the client (third option) does not apply; if the lawyer believes disclosure is necessary, the lawyer may act without that approval. Lastly, the idea that there should be no prior consultations (fourth option