A lawyer contacted by telephone a nationally-recognized malpractice defense attorney after being sued by a client for negligently handling a case. The defense attorney, who had never worked for the lawyer before, agreed and immediately began handling the matter. The two met in person the next week to discuss details about the representation. During the conversation, the defense attorney stated the customary hourly fee and expense reimbursement policy. The lawyer felt the fee was high, but agreed to pay it. The defense attorney intended to follow up with a letter to document the conversation, but forgot to do so. The defense attorney continued to work on the matter for several months, and after it was successfully resolved, submitted a bill to the lawyer. The bill accurately reflecting the hourly fees and expenses, which were reasonable.
Did the defense attorney violate Rule 1.5?
A. Yes, because the hourly rate was not disclosed prior to commencement of the representation.
B. Yes, because the defense attorney did not document the conversation about fees and expenses in writing.
C. No, because the defense attorney successfully handled the representation.
D. No, because the defense disclosed the basis of her fee within a reasonable time after commencing the representation.