Why do you want to cut the leaves now? Are they dead? I thought the only reason to cut leaves was because they were dead and the plant looked ragged.

Are you planning to pot them now for a sale next year? Just wondering.

They're in the way and have to be dug, potted and transported. I just thought it would be easier. Most of the mature leaves have to be cut off in the spring anyway. I am aware that they possibly may not bloom next spring.

I would remove only the foliage that is brown or turning brown and leave the green ones. They contain chlorophyll, which is necessary in the presence of Carbon Dioxide (CO2) and water (H2O), to produce Sugars & Starches that are used to produce and maintain healthy plants.

I dig and pot about 200 Helleborus each year and if you handle them by the foliage (recommended), it is easily accomplished. I also try not to disturb the roots, if possible, as they resent that and will sulk for days before recovering.

A flowering plant is more easily sold than a non-flowering one. Gardeners want to SEE the color of the bloom!