In Re Users System Services, Inc., Ussi Computer Services, Inc., and Ron Landreth, Relators

Summary

The Texas Supreme Court reversed the Court of Appeals' order granting mandamus relief and directing the disqualification of Akin Gump, holding that the firm's lawyer did not violate Rule 4.02(a) and therefore need not be disqualified. The Court concluded that a client’s statement of termination of counsel is sufficient to permit communication without confirming the termination, and that no prejudice requiring disqualification existed. Justice Baker, in a concurring opinion, agreed with the judgment but argued that waiver could have been a viable basis for the trial court’s decision. The opinion does not address any constitutional issues.