Easily said. So what about those law school debts (most lawyers aren’t rich and have to pay off their debts over many years), spouse to support, kids, years spent learning your livelihood, etc? Screw them too, eh? More easily said from behind a keyboard than done.
Such a simpistic attitude is unworthy of Free Republic, but sadly far too common lately. Kudos to the attorney for biting the bullet, esp. since the client has passed and cannot be harmed in any meaningful way, but this is a very complex issue with ramifications for the entire due process and right to counsel issues.
However, here’s a way too keep yourself personally from being a complete hypocrit on this topic: If you ever need a lawyer, sign a complete waiver or at least post mortem waiver of all attorney client-priviledge before retaining him/her. What, you don’t like the idea? Might harm your rights or your estate’s (kids, if you have any)? Well, that is what you are advocating for others without their consent...
I don’t know whether you know this - but I am a lawyer. But I’m first a Christian. I did make the decision years ago not to do criminal defense work and fortunately in my community, there’s a public defender so I’ve never been appointed. And you’re correct, it would be a more difficult decision for a lawyer with small children and debt neither of which I have. But just because it’s a difficult decision is not IMHO an excuse.