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MC-051Mandatory

Notice of Motion and Motion to Be Relieved as Counsel—Civil

California · Judicial Council of California · Effective January 1, 2007

This form is used by an attorney to ask the court for permission to stop representing a client in a civil case. It also provides notices to the client about what happens if the court grants the request.

The court describes it as: Attorneys use this to ask the court to let them stop representing a client in a civil case. Also provides information to clients who will no longer be represented by an attorney.

Open the official PDFfrom Judicial Council of California

Where this fits in a case

Motions

Stage: Motions

This form is used when an attorney wants the court to allow them to withdraw as the attorney of record in a civil case.

Usually filed by the person starting the case.

Common questions

Who fills out this form?
The form is used by an attorney to ask the court for permission to stop representing a client.
What happens if the motion is granted?
If the motion is granted, the attorney will no longer represent the client. The client receives notices about this change.
Does the client have to do anything?
The client is notified that if they are one of certain types of parties, they should immediately seek legal advice.

Revision history

No changes recorded since we started tracking this form on October 9, 2026. The current version took effect January 1, 2007.

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