Many potential clients are surprised at the expenses associated with litigation. Unsophisticated purchasers of legal services do not understand the inefficiencies associated with getting their cases to trial and are frustrated by the gamesmanship over procedural matters. After paying thousands of dollars of fees and costs (with no end in sight), some clients look for a scapegoat to vent their anger. Not surprisingly, the client's lawyer is an easy target.
Failing to Perform Competently Can Subject Attorneys to Discipline
Lawyers get sued for malpractice all the time, but it is rare for the California State Bar to discipline lawyers for incompetency. Nevertheless, California Rules of Professional Conduct, rule 1.1, entitled "Competence," addresses this issue.
My Lawyer Screwed Up!!! Can I Sue for Legal Malpractice?
Like other professions, lawyers sometimes make mistakes and those mistakes may have substantial consequences. So, when does an attorney's mistake justify a legal malpractice lawsuit? Ultimately, a viable legal malpractice claim will turn on the facts of the case, but here are five questions to ask if considering a legal malpractice lawsuit.
