MARule 1.4
Client Communication Rules for Massachusetts Law Firms
Massachusetts Rule 1.4 requires attorneys to promptly inform clients of matters requiring informed consent, keep clients reasonably informed, and explain matters for informed decision-making.
Rule 1.4 Key Requirements
- 1Promptly inform clients of decisions requiring informed consent
- 2Reasonably consult about means to accomplish objectives
- 3Keep clients reasonably informed about status
- 4Promptly comply with reasonable requests for information
- 5Explain matters to extent necessary for informed decisions
Additional Massachusetts Requirements
Language Access
Massachusetts has significant Portuguese-speaking (Brazilian), Spanish, and Chinese communities. Courts provide interpreter services.
Key languages: Portuguese, Spanish, Chinese, Vietnamese, and Haitian Creole
Statute of Limitations
Massachusetts attorneys must clearly communicate applicable statutes of limitation and ensure clients understand deadline implications.
Massachusetts-Specific Considerations
- Massachusetts Academy of Trial Attorneys (MATA) provides practice guidance
- Boston's diverse population requires multilingual capabilities
- Significant Brazilian/Portuguese community unique to Massachusetts
- Strong medical and academic institutions create specialized case types
- No-fault auto insurance system requires clear explanation to clients
How Quilia Helps Massachusetts Firms Stay Compliant
- Automated updates maintain Rule 1.4 compliance at scale
- Portuguese language support serves MA's unique Brazilian community
- Treatment tracking helps document serious injury threshold
- HIPAA-compliant platform protects sensitive information
- Communication logging supports Board of Bar Overseers compliance
- Client portal reduces status calls while improving satisfaction
Massachusetts Legal Resources
Massachusetts Bar Association
Massachusetts Academy of Trial Attorneys(MATA)
Trial lawyers association providing practice resources and advocacy.
Learn MoreFrequently Asked Questions: Massachusetts Attorney Communication
What are Massachusetts attorneys' communication obligations?
Massachusetts Rule 1.4 requires attorneys to promptly inform clients of matters requiring consent, consult about strategy, keep clients reasonably informed, and explain matters for informed decision-making.
How does Massachusetts' no-fault system affect communication?
Massachusetts' no-fault auto insurance (PIP) system requires attorneys to explain coverage, the serious injury threshold for tort claims, and how benefits interact. Clear communication is essential.
How does the Board of Bar Overseers handle complaints?
The Board of Bar Overseers investigates communication failures seriously. Failure to communicate is among the most common complaint categories with sanctions ranging from admonition to disbarment.
What languages should Boston law firms support?
Portuguese is particularly important in Massachusetts given the large Brazilian community. Spanish, Chinese, Vietnamese, and Haitian Creole are also significant.
Can Massachusetts attorneys use automated communication?
Yes, technology-assisted communication is permitted. Client engagement platforms help maintain Rule 1.4 compliance while managing caseloads efficiently.
How often should Massachusetts attorneys update clients?
Best practices recommend monthly updates for active cases, with immediate communication for settlement offers, court dates, and significant developments.
What is the serious injury threshold in Massachusetts?
Massachusetts requires plaintiffs to meet a serious injury threshold to pursue tort claims beyond PIP. Attorneys must clearly explain this requirement and how their injuries relate.
How can Massachusetts firms improve communication efficiency?
Client engagement platforms automate routine communications while maintaining personalized service, helping firms scale without sacrificing Rule 1.4 compliance.
Legal Terms Every Massachusetts Attorney Should Know
Clear communication requires understanding these fundamental concepts. Click any term to learn more.
Last updated: January 24, 2026
Reviewed by: Quilia Legal Compliance Team
Primary Source: Massachusetts Bar AssociationKeep Your Massachusetts Clients Informed - Automatically
Quilia helps Massachusetts law firms maintain Rule 1.4 compliance while reducing administrative burden and improving client satisfaction.