Legal Question in Family Law in Texas

The Texas Disciplinary Rules of Professional Conduct used to allow a lawyer to date their client (formerly Texas Rule 5.07), yet that provision has been recently eliminated. In its wake, we are left with an open question. While no rule expressly denies a lawyer the ability to date their client, the clear trend is to disallow such relationships unless the individuals are married.

If you are representing your own interests, you should make it clear to the court exactly why the lawyer dating their client could unduly influence the result of the case. Show the bias (for example, if this is an injury case, the lawyer's motivations to bring forth evidence contrary to the position of his client might be compromised because the lawyer is trying to "protect" the client). Bring the relationship to the Court's attention. Make it clear that you are aware of the relationship and that you believe that the relationship could present a conflict of interest that is within the province of the judge to strike.