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Notes -
Generally yes. RPC 1.6 is what governs here and the only exception to confidentiality that comes close to what you're describe is:
The comments on the rule (#10) seem to imply that the complaint from the client needs to be at least somewhat formalized through a proceeding of some sort. So while the "controversy" language seems a bit permissive, there's also the strong professional incentive to not be known as the lawyer that will sing a song about his client every time he's fired.
I have to deal with this all the time because it's common for unhappy public defense clients to try and get their lawyers fired. Generally the song and dance I have to do is make vague allusions that there has been a "complete breakdown in the attorney-client privilege". In some rare circumstances, judges have asked for more detail, and so to cover my ass I ask them the judge to sign a court order forcing me to disclose confidential information (crucially, I have the right to disobey this order if I wanted to). I then submit a sealed declaration that only the judge will read with a lot more details, but even in those circumstances I try not to get too carried away.
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