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CIV-153 Guidance: Order on Application to be Relieved as Attorney (California)

The CIV-153 form is used by attorneys in California to formally withdraw from representing a client after completing a limited scope representation in a civil case. This process ensures that the attorney has fulfilled their agreed-upon legal tasks, and it officially transitions the client to self-representation. Jump to guide on filling it out.

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The information provided on this website/page is for general informational purposes only. It should not be construed as legal advice, nor does it create an attorney-client relationship between the author and any readers or users of this content.

Reviewed By

Jenna Zebrowski, JD, MBA
Attorney
Jenna Zebrowski is a JD/MBA graduate from Texas Tech University School of Law. After working in Mexico City for 3 years, she returned to the US and spent over a decade working in-house for large and small companies, including franchises, in a real estate leasing capacity, as well as in the mortgage and title industries. In private practice since 2019, Jenna is passionate about advocacy and protection for her clients’ rights, working collaboratively towards problem prevention, and solution, when necessary.

Tips for filling out form CIV-153

When completing form CIV-153, pay special attention to these less obvious sections:

Item 2a

Service Confirmation

Ensure that you have correctly and fully served the client with both the Application to Be Relieved as Attorney and a blank Objection form. This proves that the client had an opportunity to object if they wished to. Double-check addresses to avoid disputes.
Item 3a

Objection Response

If there was an objection filed by the client, ensure you prepare documentation or a clear explanation to show how you have completed your obligations under the Notice of Limited Scope Representation. Missing this step can delay or complicate your release process.
Item 4

Effective Date Consideration

Decide and clearly mark when you are relieved as an attorney: immediately, upon proof of service, or on a specific date. This choice affects when you cease to be legally responsible for the client’s case. Ensure this aligns with your case and client handling situation.
Item 6

Additional Orders Insight

If the judge uses this section, pay close attention to any special conditions or actions required. These are court orders that must be adhered to, separate from the standard process of being relieved as an attorney.
Item 7

Client Address Accuracy

Verify the current mailing address of your client listed here. A wrong address can lead to missed communications or further legal complications for your client, as any future court documents will be sent here.

What to do after filing form CIV-153

1
Ensure that you have served copies of the signed order to all parties involved in the case, as specified in the notice to the attorney.
2
File the proof of service with the court to confirm that all parties have been notified accordingly.
3
Wait for any potential objections from the client or other parties; these objections should be expected within the time prescribed under rule 3.36 of the California Rules of Court.
4
If no objections are filed, monitor the effective date specified in the order for when you are officially relieved as the attorney.
5
Once the order becomes effective and if representing the client in all aspects of the case is necessary, ensure the client is aware they will need to proceed with self-representation or hire new counsel.
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