These summaries were prepared by McGuireWoods LLP lawyer Thomas E. Spahn. They are based on the letter opinions issued by the Virginia State Bar. Any editorial comments reflect Mr. Spahn's current personal views, and not the opinions of the Virginia State Bar, McGuireWoods or its clients.

LEO Num	Topics	Summary
0435	31-Protecting and Disclosing Confidences and Secrets 36-Withdrawal from Representations	A lawyer representing a prisoner pro bono who determines that the case is meritless and who seeks court permission to withdraw may not advise the court of the lawyer's conclusions about the case even if it means the court will not allow the lawyer to withdraw.

Copyright 2000, Thomas E. Spahn