Uh-oh. The subpoena wasn’t quashed—minor stumble; you’ll recover. Oh, no! Your opponent’s motion for summary judgment was granted—a serious setback. Yikes! You lost the appeal—you’re done unless you head for a higher court. AAARRGGHH! Your appeal was dismissed because you failed to conform to the rules—call your insurance carrier.
In any of the above situations, you must notify your client. In my estimation, the worst thing that can happen is that your client hears the news before you have let him or her know. Really. That’s the worst. Don’t let it happen. Just don’t.