In case of the advisor's departure, what obligation exists to ensure client continuity?

• A. Provide transition planning; notify clients; securely transfer records; ensure client consent regarding successor.
• B. Ignore and let the client handle transitions themselves.
• C. Immediately delete all client records.
• D. Move clients to a new advisor without notice.

Answer: (B)

When an advisor leaves, the obligation is to protect clients by ensuring a smooth transition and safeguarding their interests. This means actively planning the transition, informing clients about who will take over or how the continuity will be managed, securely transferring necessary records, and obtaining explicit client consent regarding the successor and the handling of their information. These steps keep advisory services continuous, uphold confidentiality and privacy, and satisfy fiduciary duties and regulatory requirements about recordkeeping and client notice.

This approach prevents gaps in advice, reduces confusion for clients, and preserves trust. Simply ignoring the transition, deleting records, or moving clients without notice would expose clients to disruption, potential harm, and breaches of professional and legal obligations.