Here is what the Rules of Professional Conduct say in California say about this\n\n"A member shall not withdraw from employment until the member has taken reasonable steps to avoid reasonably foreseeable prejudice to the rights of the client, including giving due notice to the client, allowing time for employment of other counsel, complying with rule 3-700(D), and complying with applicable laws and rules."\n\nThe rule goes on to describe situations where the attorney MAY withdraw when the attorney MUST withdraw.  For exmample, the attorney must with draw if he/she knows that the client is bringing a completely frivolous action.\n\nIt is really impossible to directly answer your question without knowing type of case you have, how much work the attorney has done or why the attorney wants to with withdraw.  I once had a client pay me a $2500 retainer to start work on a tax matter.  The client refused to follow my advice and was engaging in illegal activite.  I billed him for my time, deducted it from the retainer and sent him back the rest along with my letter that I wasn't going to represent him anymore.