Is it unethical for a lawyer to begin dating a client?

Many states have ethical rules against dating a client while representing the client or even soon after the professional relationship terminates if the client and attorney did not have a personal history prior to the representation. The reason is that the attorney owes a fiduciary duty to the client because the client is vulnerable and reliant on the expertise of the attorney which may be exploited by virtue of the disparity between the attorney and client. It is possible the State Bar may take action against an attorney, especially if it is believed that the relationship was exploited.

I believe the NY ethics rules were change to permit a lawyer to date a client except a matrimonial client or if the client is vulnerable.

Dating a current client would be highly improper in some circumstances such as in a matrimonial matter, but not in others. Dating a former client would not usually be a problem. Of course, an attorney should avoid any situation in which it appears the attorney is taking advantage of a client or former client due to the nature of the attorney-client relationship.

As a general rule, it is certainly the better practice not to get romantically involved with a client. In the case of a matrimonial matter, the new rules expressly prohibit this type of relationship. The previous responders all touched on good points; any situation which could potentially render the attorney vulnerable to disciplinary action should be avoided.