Reasons your attorney is silent or is taking too long to respond
After your initial accident, you decided to meet with an attorney. He was nice! You sat together for an hour in his conference room, going over your case and determining a strategy. You felt like he was listening and that he cared. Things were going well. You signed a contingency fee agreement, handed over your file and went home.
A few months later, you realized that you hadn’t heard from your lawyer in a little while. You sent him an email to see how things were going.
No response. But of course he wouldn't be ignoring you... would he?
Anxiety starts to eat at you. Why isn’t he writing back? You call and leave a message at his office. Still no response. (By the way, make sure to leave a message when you call, including your phone number so he or she has what is needed to call you back.)
"Why is my lawyer ignoring me?"
Reasons for the lack of communication by your attorney
According to the American Bar Association’s Model Rules of Professional Conduct 1.4:
Client-Lawyer Relationship
Rule 1.4 Communication
(a) A lawyer shall:
(1) Promptly inform the client of any decision or circumstance with respect to which the client's informed consent, as defined in Rule 1.0(e), is required by these Rules;
(2) Reasonably consult with the client about the means by which the client's objectives are to be accomplished;
(3) Keep the client reasonably informed about the status of the matter;
(4) Promptly comply with reasonable requests for information; and
(5) Consult with the client about any relevant limitation on the lawyer's conduct when the lawyer knows that the client expects assistance not permitted by the Rules of Professional Conduct or other law.
(b) A lawyer shall explain a matter to the extent reasonably necessary to permit the client to make informed decisions regarding the representation.
It all comes down to what “prompt,” “reasonable” and “informed” mean. The most important thing to remember about this is that an attorney’s idea of “prompt” and a client’s might vary. Here are the top reasons for silence:
- You don’t have any deadlines coming up and there is nothing to report. Personal injury cases have deadlines that must be met, but they can take place months apart. In that in-between time, your lawyer is waiting until he absolutely has to answer interrogatories or handle that request for documents.
- He’s attending to other cases on his docket. This ties into the previous point; if your attorney has other cases (which he does), he will likely deal with yours only when a deadline is coming up. You aren’t his only client. He has others to work on.
- He doesn't have time to chat. While it might seem like lawyers have lots of free time and are delighted whenever you drop by their office, you are taking time away from other money-making cases. He has an office to run. Let him run it.
- Your lawyer is attending to his own issues. He also has his own personal life, and maybe he’s got some problems or major events to deal with. Maybe he's attending a string of conferences or out of town for a basketball game. Or his daughter is getting married or his wife is divorcing him. While a lawyer deserves personal grace as much as other humans, it should not interfere with your case, like happened here.
- You technically aren’t the client. If your father or other relative is the actual client who signed a contingency fee agreement, you can’t talk to the lawyer on their behalf. That’s what attorney-client privilege is all about.
- You are not taking his advice. Sorry to break this one to you if that’s the case. If you aren’t heeding your attorney’s advice, why did you hire him? If he tells you to do X and you instead do Y, he probably won’t waste his time trying to explain things to you. He’ll handle the case as far away from you as possible.
- He has bad news and is dreading delivering it. Maybe your lawyer is terrible with communication. Maybe he missed a filing deadline and is trying hard to rectify the issue without confessing his error. Hopefully this isn't the case, but it could happen.
Until you get a response, you will never know the real reason.
What should I do if my lawyer isn't communicating with me?
If you think your attorney is ignoring you, send a certified letter to his office questioning the silence and that you are prepared to find a new lawyer if necessary. This will jolt him into action. He will respond either by saying the two of you aren’t a good fit, or he will start being much more communicative.
However, by simply outlining your grievances logically (you don’t need to write a novel) and saying the magic words (“I’ll find another attorney if necessary”), you will likely succeed in opening up a channel of communication that satisfies you.
Once you get his or her attention, try to come to agreement on communication protocols that work for both of you. (In fact, we recommend discussing this upfront before hiring an attorney in our interview checklist.)
If not, pay any outstanding bills, pick up your file and be on your way. There’s a statute of limitations to contend with, and you don’t want to lose the ability to file your claim.
If you do want to find another attorney, consider looking through the Enjuris law firm directory.
Aronberg Law says
Thanks for sharing these awesome tips with us!
Lisa Banks says
Hi Aronberg Law, thanks for stopping by!
Gary Bogie says
I used lawyers many times in my life. I’m 61 years old now. Many times, I learned they take the money and than ignore you. It’s common in the USA because the state board really doesn’t do anything or not much to protect the clients. They are mainly concerned about protecting the lawyers.
Patricia Anne Bills says
I have a most complicated issue.
I also have terminal stage 4 glioblastoma brain cancer and my elder law attorney has vanished.
This is long and complicated so I will attempt to summarize.
My dad passed away leaving me a large sum of money and a house and I am also on Medicaid in kansas and have irrevocable trust that my son manages and got for me and all that entails.
I need a lawyer to make sure that everything is being done properly with my inheritance through Medicaid and SSI & to make sure my needs are being met and and no embezzling is going on.
My son spoke with my lawyer, not me, and I’m not entirely certain what happened. I’ve emailed her many times to no avail.
I can’t speak in person due to my cancer so emails or texts is how I corespond. I have privacy issues as my son has my email addresses.
I’m lost in a world without a safety net.
Please help me. I have nowhere to turn.
Bonnie Dysinger says
I was injured at a business at a home. Homeowners didnt cover it. My lawyer didnt call me back for a year. I told him i wanted a judgement they have money. He ignored my calls now statute is up. Can i sue my lawyer
Lance Buchanan says
Thanks for sharing your story, Patricia. We’re sorry to hear about your diagnosis and legal troubles. You might consider talking to an attorney of your own to find out what your legal rights are. These can vary depending on where you live and the details of your case. Feel free to use our attorney directory to find a lawyer near you. We wish you the best!
Lance Buchanan says
Thanks for sharing, Bonnie. While we aren’t able to say for certain whether or not you can sue your lawyer, we do recommend getting legal advice from another attorney. If the statute of limitations is expired, you may not be able to pursue a claim for the injury. However, an attorney can help you determine if there are other options. Feel free to use our free attorney directory to locate a new lawyer in your area. Good luck!
Jacob Talmage says
This is not acceptable…. We pay a great sum of money to a lawyer that we trust will represent our best interests. Yes, a lot of us have made huge mistakes but we are human and we deserve fair representation! If a man pays me $20 to cut his grass I do it and to the best of my ability because that’s what is expected! A lawyer is no different, if you pay this man to do a job he should be held to the same standard!
Lance Buchanan says
We agree, Jacob! It is absolutely unacceptable. Unfortunately, as with any profession, there are unscrupulous and dishonest lawyers out there just seeking to make a quick buck off clients in need. The good news is there’s nothing stopping a person from taking their case to a different attorney who’ll actually listen to them. The hard part is finding a good attorney from the beginning to avoid this hassle altogether. Here are some tips: https://www.enjuris.com/personal-injury-law/finding-personal-injury-attorney.html
Kris says
We have a lawyer for the past year dealing with a child custody/visitation case. Nothing but paperwork has been done and they have exhausted our retainer fee. They have now asked for another retainer fee. Unfortunately, I didn’t have the $2k sitting around so I emailed them asking for maybe a payment plan. I have not heard back from them since Sept and it’s now Dec. I’ve even attempted calling the office leaving messages, but no return call. Have I been dumped?? Do I still need to “fire them” with a letter?
Lance Buchanan says
Good question, Kris. It’s pretty unusual (not to mention unethical) for an attorney to fail to respond to a client for 4 months. A lawyer don’t typically “dump” a client without sending a termination letter. Our suspicion is that this lawyer (for whatever reason – maybe a sudden health issue?) is simply not responding to clients. If you still can’t get in touch with the attorney soon, it’s a good idea to send the attorney a termination email or letter. This can be something as simple as two sentences: “I am writing to notify you that I wish to end our attorney-client relationship effective immediately. Please do not take any further action on my behalf.” This letter will prompt the attorney to file a notice of withdrawal with the court. In most states, the notice of withdrawal must include the client’s address. That way, the court, opposing attorneys, etc. will send the client any important paperwork/notices rather than sending them to the attorney. Then, we suggest getting in touch with a new lawyer and explain the situation. The new lawyer can (1) make sure the old lawyer has actually filed the notice of withdrawal, (2) make sure any new paperwork/notices get directed to the right place, and (3) make sure there aren’t any upcoming deadlines that need prompt action.
Stephanie pike says
I paid an attorney in full for a contested divorce back in September, long story short this should’ve been an easy divorce he is in prison and we have nothing to fight over. It is now January it’s been almost 5 months and nothing. My attorney has been ignoring me and come to find out she filed my divorce In the wrong county. And she keeps telling me “oh I’m waiting to see if the judge will see your case January 9th.” But that’s not gonna happen bc I’ve done my research and called the county she filed my divorce in and they have not received anything from her for the judge to sign to see my case. She keeps lying and I have proof, all I want is a divorce. Also it’s been 60 days since it’s been filed and he’s been served. I’m just lost and don’t know what to do! I did set up an appointment for Tuesday to see her and find out what’s going on! Highly frustrated with this!
Lance Buchanan says
Thanks for sharing, Stephanie. That does sound frustrating! Sounds like you’re on the right track by setting up an appointment with the attorney. Don’t be afraid to be upfront and honest about these concerns. If she continues to ignore you, consider finding a new divorce lawyer. Send your current attorney a termination email or letter. This can be something as simple as two sentences: “I am writing to notify you that I wish to end our attorney-client relationship effective immediately. Please do not take any further action on my behalf.” This letter will prompt the attorney to file a notice of withdrawal with the court. In most states, the notice of withdrawal must include the client’s address. That way, the court, opposing attorneys, etc. will send the client any important paperwork/notices rather than sending them to the attorney. Then, we suggest getting in touch with a new lawyer and explain the situation. The new lawyer can (1) make sure the old lawyer has actually filed the notice of withdrawal, (2) make sure any new paperwork/notices get directed to the right place, and (3) make sure there aren’t any upcoming deadlines that need prompt action. Best of luck!
Sandra mcgonigal says
I signed up for our lawyer after my car wreck. The other guy admitted it was his fault. My car was almost payed off and I would be free of car payment & FC ins.
I have “ preexisting conditions including ruptured discs, sciatica nerve damage etc that causes me limited mobility. But yet I’ve still worked in a dental lab for years with no problems, I got help when I asked for it etc.
Since the wreck that totaled my car ( he made a u-turn at a green light as I was going through it at 65 mph. ) I started having problems at work, 5 mo. later was dismissed because “there was no work for me” 4 LABS CLOSE TO ME WERE HIRING FOR TECHS
Now, a year later my lawyer is still waiting on paperwork from my dr. 3 mo. ago he said they had all the paperwork and was sending it to ins company. No word since. Last week I called and they said they were waiting on paperwork! WHAT THE #*%+! I am about to lose my house! I can’t afford my car payments that I wouldn’t have if it weren’t for the wreck! I can’t find a job anywhere because of my disability and am hungry for more than peanut butter sandwiches! I’m filing for disability but I’ve been out of work for 7 mo.
Can anything be done about my lawyers slack in my case, lying to me and basically not wanting to do anything for me since I didn’t require surgery? (Yes he keeps mentioning that)
Sue says
I have a complex case involving 5 claims in one lawsuit. My attorney is good as far as how his legal skills are perceived by opposing counsels. However, he will not keep appointments with me. I have been trying to meet with him to discuss my case, and next steps to move it along, for 6 months. Each time we have a phone meeting, he cancels due to too busy to talk to me at the time or some kind of excuse and tells me to call him back on such and such day. I call him back on the new designated day, another excuse. He has even canceled 10 minutes before a meeting where I was driving over 6 hours from another state to meet with him. This conduct is creating extreme stress and anxiety, however, I cannot just simply go get another attorney…and he knows it. Any suggestions on how I can inspire him to have a meeting to discuss the case and work on the tasks (interrogatories, demand letter etc.) needed to move my case along? I have even suggested working with one of his staff for communications and case tasks, but received no response to the suggested email. I know you can contact the Bar Assoc. and they can help with communication but I would think contacting the Bar would only create further friction. Suggestions would be extremely appreciated!
Ian Pisarcik says
Sue,
I’m sorry to hear that you’re having trouble with your attorney. Attorneys are very busy and often have to cancel telephone meetings. With that being said, attorneys are ethically required to maintain communication with their clients. I know you’re worried about how contacting the State Bar might create friction. But, you can contact the Bar about an attorney without lodging a formal complaint. Sometimes, the Bar is able to provide you with tips on dealing with the attorney, or offer referrals to other attorneys that might be more responsive. I would also consider drafting a formal letter expressing your concerns and mailing it to your lawyer. The lawyer will likely feel more compelled to respond to such a letter knowing that the letter (and their lack of a response) will come up if a Bar complaint is lodged down the road. Good luck!
Ian Pisarcik says
Sandra,
Unfortunately, sometimes the legal process can move very slowly. However, it’s important to keep in mind that your attorney is employed by you – not the other way around. If you are unhappy with your attorney, you should consider contacting another attorney. There is nothing that prevents you from switching attorneys. Just be sure to be upfront with your current attorney.
Rodney says
What if a PO comes to a client tells them an offer and the agrees but in order to get it is with a lawyer….no problem, lawyer is hired, he met with the PO they talked offers were made and the lawyer never advised his client of any offer made and later found out he rejected the offer without the client knowing. Can something be done to him legally for that?
Janis says
I have a laywer since August i fell and broke my risk i hurt my knees had a cast on for 7 weeks and i still have problems with me risk.we went to a hearing my laywer and i in October.he told me if we didnt here from the people within two weeks we will take them to court every since that court date i have called him three times he act like hes not interested in my case anymore.the last time i talked yo him he said he would get back to me that was three weeks ago.and he told me he was thinking about not prosueing it he tried to tell me i told the man it didnt effect my life.i told him why would i say that when it still Effect me.i broke me right risk im right handed i still have pain from it.i had anziade it was degradeing my 15 year old had to help me with everything showing.and i remember when we was in that hearing he said he gos to Florida for the winter hes back and forth.so i font know what to do i fell on some really bad steps at a beach my name is janis moore can you please help me and tell me what i need to do thank you
Ian Pisarcik says
Janis,
I’m sorry you’re having such a difficult time getting in touch with your attorney. I would recommend writing a letter to your attorney expressing your concerns. If your attorney does not adequately respond to your concerns, it might be time to move on to a new attorney. In the meantime, you might find our article answering the question “Why is my lawyer ignoring me?” helpful. https://www.enjuris.com/blog/questions/lawyer-ignoring-me/
Ian Pisarcik says
If I understand your question correctly, you’re asking what can be done if your lawyer fails to make you aware of a settlement offer. Lawyers have a legal responsibility to communicate offers to their client. If your lawyer failed to do so, you should consider contacting the bar association in your state. You may also want to contact another attorney to see if you might have a viable malpractice case.
Jana P says
My husband was in a car accident on October 30, 3018. He hit a horse at 6:15 in the morning going 65 mph.. He suffered a major TBI and fractures.. He is still under doctors care and can’t drive due to nerve damage to the 4th cranial nerve. Medical bills are starting to come in.. We hired an attorney in November and signed consent paperwork and as the months past we upload all our medical bills and any paperwork we get pertaining to the accident to mycase, which our attorney and his paralegal have access to.
My husband has reached out and checked on our case and our attorney nor his paralegal has responded, either by email or phone. Is this normal? We know it takes time, but no communication in almost 3 months?
Ian Pisarcik says
Jana,
Three months is a long time to not hear anything from your attorney or at least the paralegal. I would recommend writing a brief letter explaining your concerns and asking for a meeting. Attorneys are busy, but seeing something in writing generally motivates your attorneys to get in touch.
Jana says
Ian,
Thank you for your response. We will get a letter written..
Acb234 says
I retained a lawyer and paid him $600 to get out of our lease in Chicago. He sent a letter to our landlord terminating the lease based on the fact she didn’t correctly make a lease to begin with. He also put in damages and a 14 day deadline. 14 days have passed and I’ve emailed him 4 times over the last month asking for next steps with no reply. What can I do? I paid with a credit card and I can’t dispute the charge but am I opening myself up to some sort of liability by doing so?
Ian Pisarcik says
Aaron,
Unfortunately, lawyers are pretty busy and sometimes it takes multiple calls and emails to get in touch with them. If you’ve only emailed, I would suggest calling your lawyer. If that doesn’t work, I would suggest writing a letter to your lawyer. Generally, letters get the attention of lawyers because it would serve as evidence of their failure to respond should you file a Bar complaint down the road.
Dr. Robert Woods says
In most of your replies to questions about lawyers not responding to clients… you note their busy work schedules. We work to, but ethics in a profession are most often sworn to. Far too many lawyers take the money and stop communication w/ clients. The judicial system is already a “money-pit,”. Its a pity that so many lawyers are… yet still protected by the system.
The Disability Champions says
Great blog! Thank you for sharing this blog. This blog is very helpful for me.
Nick says
My name is Nick On july27 2018 I was involved in a car accident I contacted a lawyer. The other party took complete responsibility of the accident I started going to therapy upper back but my pain was stronger on the lower back I decided to go to er again and did two more catscans which revealed that I had three herniated lower discs this was done in October 30 2018 I couldn’t hardly walk anymore my back gets numb and got to hold to something as a result I gained weight and stressed out about my situation I have to work even if I drag my self, on top of this on December. 4 2018 I had a heart attack I have a bill of 139000 plus all other bills from cat scan 4 months therapy and I asked my lawyer to help me with a loan I can’t work I need to eat support a fam he got me 620 loan in December I am trying to get more loan money and I can’t find him they keep telling me different excuses I have only talked to him once what can I do ?
Ian Pisarcik says
Nick,
Try writing your attorney a letter explaining your concern. Sometimes, a letter is enough to get the attention of an attorney. Also, don’t be afraid to seek out a different attorney if your attorney isn’t workout out. Take a look at our free online directory for a list of attorneys in your area.
Ian Pisarcik says
Thanks for the comment!
Sam says
So very true thank you for teling the truth about so many lawyers.
Dennis Jentgens says
In December 2018 I submitted my issue to a contingency based lawyer. He called me and agreed to take my case. He (and his web site) said he personally handles all calls and E Mails and I would be immediately transferred to him if I call. He said I would get a draft of my complaint in a week and then once approved would be filed. After several weeks of no action I called him and was intercepted by his admin. Shortly I received an e mail stating they were short handed and could not do anything until March 2019. March arrived with no activity. I e mailed them and finally received an e mail from an associate saying they started the draft and I would have it soon. Again ni action. I e mailed again and received a draft complaint. I turned it around in 24 hours with a few suggestions. No response. Again follow up with an e mail. After a week I person called and said they had finished the claim and would be filing it that week. A week later I asked for a copy of what was filed. A week (now two weeks) later I received an e mail with a copy of the final complaint and a request to set up a call to discuss whether we should go to arbitration or small claims court.. I sent an email explaining I was confused because the principle called me initially and said going to arbitration was not good and we need to go to small claims court. I also mentioned that two weeks ago she said it was being filed then and the Dealer would be served. I asked her to give me a few dates and times to talk as my wife was very Ill and I needed to have her attended to while I am on a call. It has been over a week with no reply. I called this morning and left a message for the principle to please call me. No call back yet. It has been almost 5 months since the first contact from the principle and still no claim filed and no return calls or e mails. I have told them multiple times I am driving a car without A/C in Florida because the principle said not to get repairs done until this is settled. They have yet to respond to my concern.
I am afraid they will charge me for the work done so far if I fire them. How can I finally get them to do something without them charging me for any time invested. All I want is to get this settled and my car fixed. I don’t want to start over yet I have been in this situation for 4 months and still have no claim filed on a clear cut case..
Ian Pisarcik says
Dennis,
Unfortunately, cases move through the legal system very slowly. I would draft a letter informing the attorney that you are considering looking elsewhere for legal representation due to the attorney’s lack of response to your inquiries. This should motivate the attorney to meet with you to discuss next steps and unresolved issues. If things don’t improve, reach out to another attorney and mention your concerns.
Glen says
I was threaten by an arbitrator to sign a work comp offer. The lawyer got paid handsomely but he quit working on my case after that. My medical bills and medicare setaside have not been started per contract. It’s been almost 30 months and I get excuses from them to finish it. No other lawyer will take my case. The board association rejects my pleas as well. I am at the mercy of there power and I not being a lawyer. I know now why layers get bad revenues. This is not justice. They did get some bills played in order to get paid themselves.
Jose says
Hi my name is Jose, I had a Workers comp case , broke my anckle last year and I got everything paid off by Workers comp even my temporary disability checks but eventually that came to an end when we met up in a private mediation at my attorneys office. We couldn’t close the case that day because my attorney tried to get some more money so he said give me two days see if I can get you more so those two days passed and he called me and We agreed on a final settlement amount that day but it’s been more than two months and I haven’t seen the settlement papers to sing up so I can get my check I try to contact my lawyer he tells me he well call me back and he never doesn’t and the paralegal is always busy to answer my calls … what could be the hold if I already talked to my adjuster and she said she already sent the papers since a month ago?
Photizo.N says
I am very concerned about the lack of updates from my attorney, emails bouncing back to me or not being addressed, and the fact that he is not answering my phone calls,
and messages are not being returned
My last conversation with him he said that we were going to move ahead and file my case in court.
I checked with him awhile after that and he said that we are waiting for a court date, That was early in the year January 2019. My accident was in 2015, and he has been representing me since 2016, I have lost my job I’ve had to have surgeries my savings is depleted, and I have very little money coming through and I am unable to work. I am facing eviction and he still not giving me any answers so that I can make decisions moving forward . This is so so frustrating and hurtful when he does not return my calls to find out what is going on with my Case.
Is there any way that I can contact the courts to see if my case has actually been filed and where would I begin, what courts do i even contact?? unfortunately I have lost faith in my attorney.
Chris says
So my friend said she was consulting a lawyer with a possible restraining order, then she said that the lawyer asked for written statements from me on regular old paper, would any attorney ever ask for that?
Murat TAŞTAN says
I want to get a lawyer service.
Could you leave your contact number?
Ian Pisarcik says
Murat,
You can use our free online directory to locate an attorney (you’ll see the attorney telephone numbers when you click on an attorney)!
Ian Pisarcik says
Chris,
It’s not unusual for an attorney to ask for a statement on regular paper. The attorney may then type the statement and have you sign it. Or, an attorney may simply submit a copy of the paper as evidence. When it comes to witness statements, the acceptable formats vary considerably.
Customer/client says
Doctors are busy too.we would never expect to tolerate such lackadaisical attitude and treatment. Clients pay good money to be let down and simply told to find another attorney. More money . What happen to ethics and common decency. When one hires an attorney it is because we NEED them. I could keep going on but should I have to?
Help them says
My conclusion is there’s A LOT of wimps who become lawyers. I’ve seen such poor communication, representation, at the expense of the one in need. Your supposed to fight for justice for your client. That’s the job remember that. That is your art form and ethic, how you treat YOUR client,
Ian Pisarcik says
I’m sorry you’ve had some bad experiences with attorneys. Just like any other profession, there are good attorneys and bad attorneys. If you feel you’re being treated unfairly by your attorney, don’t hesitate to reach out to the attorney discipline department of your locate state bar association.
Ian Pisarcik says
Court records are generally open to the public. You can go to the court where your case was filed (usually, the county where the accident occurred or where the defendant lives) and request to see the court file (go to the clerk’s office in the courthouse). If you think your attorney is ignoring you, consider contacting your local bar association for advice (or hiring a new attorney).
Tracyg says
Ok I was arrested for misdemeanor theft released on my own recognizance to appear in court a week later for arraignment at that time I ask the court for a court appointed attorney due to my lack of income and was granted one. I was given a name a number of the lawyer assigned to my case so I can give him my case details. He assured me he would put a not guilty plea in for me and my case will be set for Pretrial. I didn’t hear back from him for some time nor did I receive a notification from the court to appear back so I waited to be notified of my next appearance. After a month or so went by I finally decided to contact him to find out the status of my case. When I called him he ask if He could get back with me or could I call him back he needed to look at my file come to find out we both missed my court date he assured me he would take care of it not to worry and he would let me know what was going on. I ask if I can get a notification by mail of my court date or by text message because my phone is messed up I can’t access my voicemail or tell when I’m getting incoming calls and he said no problem. After about another month I call him again to see the current status and he informs me I missed the reschedule court date that he left me a voice message telling me when to appear. I was very upset cuz I made it clear when we spoke that I can’t get voicemail I needed either a text notification or one by mail and he said I will have to contact the court to get it figured out. When I called the rocky river ohio municipal court the lady told me it was my lawyers responsibility to get my court rescheduled cuz I currently had a warrant for failure to appear. I called him back and told him what I was told and he said ok. Later I received a text stating I have to pay $350 bond before I can get a new date to continue. If I can’t afford a lawyer how can I afford to pay that. So now I have had a warrant for several months now cuz I don’t have the money to bond out because my lawyer isn’t properly representing me. Anytime I have had to appear in court before I was always issued notification by mail from the county court the case was in how is it legal to expect me to appear if I had no clue I was suppose to. What can I do…. what options do I have to get my warrant dismissed. I feel like this lawyer doesn’t want to do anything to help me out cuz I’m not a paying customer or something. I understand he is busy I’m not asking him to go out of his way for me I just want him to do his job representing me.
Ian Pisarcik says
I would send your lawyer a letter detailing your complaints and the steps you want your lawyer to take. In most cases, you can get a different public defender by writing a letter to the judge. Accordingly, you can mention to your lawyer that you want to explore getting a different public defender. Hopefully this will motivate your attorney to either (a) be more responsive, or (b) help you request a new lawyer.
Gary Swanson says
I was involved in a vehicle accident where the other driver, a minor, is at fault and he was driving his sisters vehicle. The at fault driver also has minimal insurance (Policy 1). I do have $100,000 in under insured on my policy (Policy 2). After filing a lawsuit, his insurance company (Policy 1) agreed to pay their maximum amount. We were heading to mediation to avoid going to trial utilizing my under insured policy (Policy 2) when the insurance company of the parent or sister, sent a letter to the attorney that the at fault driver had insurance through them (Policy 3) at a much higher amount in excess of my under insured policy (Policy 2). Based on this, my Insurance company (Policy 2) petitioned the court to be dismissed as this new insurance (Policy 3) was a much higher amount and the dismissal was granted. Several months later, the insurance company for Policy 3 sent a letter that they actually have zero coverage for the at fault driver. My attorney petitioned the court based on the reversal of insurance by Policy 3 to reverse the Policy 2 dismissal and re-instate my under insured insurance. The Court ruled in favor of the Policy 2 dismissal and I am being denied my under insured insurance. The attorney for Policy 2 presented cases at a hearing where this has occurred and prior rulings stated that an insurance company can’t indicate they have insurance coverage and then reverse it. At this point in time I am being denied the use of my Under Insured Policy (Policy 2) based on a misrepresentation made by Policy 3. Policy 3 is also not being held accountable for their actions.. How do you proceed with this as I am incurring damages by the misinformation, whether innocent or not, by Policy 3 as my policy (Policy 2) is dismissed from the case?
Melissa Gold says
Hi, Gary. Wow – this is complicated, and I can understand your frustration. Unfortunately, I can’t provide too much guidance because I’m not familiar with the terms of the policies or the specific circumstances in this case. Your best approach is to consult with your attorney to gain more insight into how the insurance companies and courts are handling the matter. Best of luck to you. I hope you can reach a swift and satisfactory resolution.
Leif says
I was fighting an op. Hired an attorney. She suggested I allow the order of protection she appeared on my behalf and said she would mail me a copy of the order it’s been 4 mo and I have told her several times I haven’t gotten a copy so u don’t know where I can and can’t go. I went to a restarting to eat. Got thru the first set of doors and seen my ex who filed for the op. I turned around And left now I have a warrant for violation of order of protection. I contacted my attorney who said she would contact states attorney to see what was going on. That was 3 days ago. No response. Still haven’t seen the actual op and now have a warrant because of it. What should I do?
Melissa Gold says
Hi, Leif. This sounds like a complicated situation. Unfortunately, without knowing the specifics, it’s hard to suggest what you should do or what your rights are. If you have a warrant or court date, it’s important for your lawyer to know about that. You might wish to contact your lawyer’s office in writing and politely express your frustration and concern if you haven’t heard back from them. Set forth your questions, the facts, relevant dates, and what you need from them. If that doesn’t help you get the answers you need, you might need to find an attorney who’s more responsive. Best of luck — I hope you’re able to get the resolution you need.
Katrina Gibson says
My lawyer came to an agreement of a flat fee payment and I already paid it, She hasn’t be responding after meeting with her and sending her all of my documentation that she requested. I started this process of modification of custody on my own and hired my lawyer halfway through it all. We have now reached the 6 month point and I don’t know what to do. I have called, emailed and she won’t respond. She has her own firm so I can’t show up at her office because she is only there when she makes appointments to meet her clients. Any suggestions?
Ian Pisarcik says
Katrina,
Attorneys are often very busy. With that being said, attorneys have an ethical duty to communicate with their clients. I would recommend sending your attorney a letter outlining your concerns and explaining that you are going to look for a new attorney if the issues aren’t resolved. If your attorney still doesn’t respond, it’s probably time to seek out a new attorney and contact the local bar association to file a complaint.
Anthony Cadet says
This article helps me to get the new points regarding Why is my Lawyer Ignoring Me? Thanks
Arja Shah says
Nice post!!! I really enjoy reading this article. Great work…
Ian Pisarcik says
Jose,
I would try sending your attorney a letter explaining that you need your settlement check. If the attorney doesn’t respond, you can reach out to your local bar association and file a formal complaint.
Waiting Patiently says
My lawyer obtained a temporary court order for a settlement in which I will receive money. He did it quickly and efficiently. I was very pleased. Now, everything is completed at the other end, the amount has been communicated to me and my lawyer through the payor ….BUT they are requiring my lawyer to finalize the temporary court order so they can pay me out. Its been over a month now, and my lawyer has still not finalized the court order. His office keeps telling me “soon”…..”within the next week”. He hasn’t done anything to finalize the court order, and I don’t understand why. Everything he did was quick…now nothing. Is it that hard to get a court order finalized? How long does this usually take?
Sedrick York says
I spent $100 on consultation fee and haven’t spoke to the lawyer since paying my $3,000 retainer. Within the first two months I called twice a month just to check on things. Time went by and I left it alone, now 8 months later I decided to srop my case and have called to inform them and retrieve any money unused. I was told they will look at my info and call back , no call, I call again the very next day stating eho I was from the previous day im told my paper work is in front of her and will call me back. NO CALL!!! Any suggestions because im ready to send a perturbed email to them
Clanca says
Do they have the right to withdraw from your case if you don’t want to except the offer ,well my lawyer said that can’t get anymore money from the insurance so they going to withdraw from my case and still get there money
Ian Pisarcik says
I’m sorry this is happening to you.
An attorney can withdraw from a case if the client insists that the lawyer take action that the lawyer disagrees with. It sounds like that is what’s happening in your situations (though, of course, I don’t know all the facts). If you are concerned that your lawyers behavior might be improper, you can contact another attorney or your state bar association.
Sue Floyd says
We are from a very small town in western New York, and our family has been a client of our attorney’s office for 50-60 years, always with a good working relationship, first with the original lawyer, and then with his 2 sons when they took over the practice. They have represented our family in all personal, land and property dealings (wills, surveying, titles, deeds, etc.) for YEARS. It’s a small town, and my father has even let them use our 85+ acres of forested land to hunt on; they are that familiar with the property.
In 2014, I approached them about setting up a family trust, to protect my father’s estate as he aged. THEY recommended a different attorney who specialized in elder law, trusts, etc. Great, no problem. We met with that attorney, set up the family trust, everything was hunky-dory.
Fast forward to December 2019. My father passed away on Christmas eve. A few days later, I tried to call our family lawyers (not the trust lawyer), and after 3 phone calls, we CANNOT get past the receptionist to even schedule a sit-down with the attorney(s) to discuss a land sale (the same land my father has allowed them to hunt on) — land that is privately owned by my brother and myself, and not included in the trust. She just keeps telling us to talk to the other attorney. But the other attorney does not have any information or paperwork about this land. We tried THREE times to just set up an appointment, and the receptionist keeps blocking us from meeting with them.
I guess my question would be, how can we get around her to speak to the lawyer? I’m afraid if we send a letter (even a certified letter) it’s only going to get to her desk, and the attorneys will never even see it. So, we’ve tried phone calls, we’ve tried emails. Do you have any suggestions on how to get past this pit-bull so we can actually meet with our attorney? Our time in our home town is always somewhat limited (I live in Colorado, my brother in Florida), so we don’t have time to keep trying. We need an appointment for a time when we will be in NY to settle these matters.
Melissa Gold says
Hi Sue,
Thank you for reaching out to Enjuris. First, I’m so sorry to hear about your father’s passing. Second, I can understand your frustration. A lawyer has an ethical obligation to communicate with his clients. If he’s holding documents or if his lack of communication is holding up your ability to settle the estate, he’s not meeting his ethical duty to you as a client. You might wish to send a certified letter, as you mentioned. If you still don’t get a response, you can file a complaint with your state or county bar association.
It’s possible that the lawyer isn’t avoiding you, specifically — perhaps he has a medical issue of his own, or maybe he’s involved in a lengthy trial or other proceeding — and the receptionist has been instructed to withhold client calls and meetings. Often, the “gatekeeper” isn’t familiar with the relationships and backstory in an office.
You mentioned that the trust lawyer can’t proceed with the land sale because he doesn’t have the documents. However, it might make sense to express to the trust lawyer that you’ve had difficulty reaching the original lawyer. He might be able to make some more headway — the first lawyer might be able to speak with him as a professional courtesy, even if he’s not taking calls from clients. The trust lawyer might be able to advise you on how to obtain your file and move forward on the land sale if the family lawyer is uncooperative. Best of luck.
Ian Pisarcik says
Sedrick,
I would try sending a signed letter. Sometimes a signed letter gets the attention of the lawyer. You might also mention in the letter that your next step is to contact the state bar if you don’t hear back.
To that end, if you continue to have an issue, you can contact your local state bar association. They can provide suggestions and also get a complaint process started.
Ian Pisarcik says
It’s hard for me to know what steps remain to finalize the paperwork without seeing the actual paperwork. Settlements can take a while to finalize. It might be a matter of having the judge sign off, which could depend on their schedule. I would try sending the lawyer a letter expressing your concerns. If things drag on, you can always contact your local state bar association for advice.
John Riddle says
Thanks for information
Ian Pisarcik says
You’re welcome!
Martin Nolifeturd says
Hello,
I run my fathers business and make sure everything is in order. He hired a lawyer he knew for a long time. But he actually got his license from how to YouTube to become a lawyer for dummies. Now that my father essentially hired him, but I call the shots, if the lawyer tells me he is purposely not going to do that, can I file that to the bar association, he actually hasn’t done anything with our cases I had bought our county courts service where it allows me to see what all has been filed and done. Nothing has. What do I do??
Melanie says
I was the victim of a non-domestic assault and battery in June of last year. It occurred at s public event with a plethora of witnesses, but the city prosecutor assigned to my case is notorious for bring dismissive towards A and B cases against women. Plus, the guy that assaulted me had more money than God so I knew I needed a lawyer to supplement my case.
I retained a lawyer the next month (July of 2019) and everything appeared to go swimmingly. Via my lawyer, it sounded like the guy was going to get house arrest and I was going to be granted a protective order.
Two months ago, my lawyer cut off all communication. I didn’t think too much of it because he said not much would be happening until sentencing.
I got a call from the prosecutor two weeks ago stating that the prosecutor had rejected the plea deal (based on the defendant’s extensive record of priors) and they had relayed this to my lawyer two months ago. My lawyer never relayed this to me. I have since tried desperately to call and email. No response. I went by his office. There was a sign on his door saying he would be unavailable for the next two weeks. The sentencing date is fast approaching and no more continuances are being allowed.
Do I proceed without my lawyer and take action against him later with the state bar? Or do I demand a continuance and hire a new lawyer? What’s the likelihood of another lawyer doing this to me? I’ve been an easy client. Too easy, apparently.
Just wondering says
My lawyer obtained a settlement for me. He received the settlement put it in escrow all liens came in and was told it was sent to accounting do be disperse. That was two weeks ago called acouple times last week trying to get a time frame. Was told they didn’t know how long it will take.. my question is how long does usely takes to get money from your attorney.
Jennifer says
I have a difficult situation. I was my great-aunt’s guardian and she passed away. No other family members were willing to take on the PR for the estate (we couldn’t find a will). It is a very, very small estate. I let our family attorney of many, many years handle the probate process for us. It is a small town and he is like a father to the judge. It’s always been a good relationship. We were advised that we had time to make decisions. That as the PR, I could pay the estate bills out of pocket (no money, just a house) and they will be repaid from the estate.
Two years to by and I am authorized by the law office to get an appraisal and place the house for sale. I ask if I need any paperwork and am told just to put that I am the PR. Which I did. We get an offer on the house and the buyers ask to use a specific closing company. They continually say that they need the PR paperwork for the court, which I keep telling the law office. They insist they don’t need it. I travel to the town and go in person and let them know that I need to take the PR paperwork across the street to the closing company/title office.
That’s when they can’t find it. And it appears they never filed anything for the probate. So the secretary ( the lawyer’s daughter) let’s me know that it will be a 30 day process of sending out notices again and everything. Okay. I’m so shocked that I’m really nice about it. I tell her that two people have moved and I will email her those updated addresses.
I email the addresses the next day. This is in September. She responds that she will get with a judge and set the date. I text and email and call repeatedly for the next few months to find out the date and ask if there is anything I should do. I never get any response or return call.
In December, I find another heir who wished to give her info directly to the lawyer. I text and email to let them know her name and phone number and that she will be calling. She calls 3 times and they never call her back.
In February, I try repeatedly to contact them. My sister decides to call from her office and the secretary immediately answers the phone. She tells my sister that the only thing preventing them from moving forward is that I haven’t given them the addresses they need to send out notices. Just the day before I had emailed and texted asking what I could do to move this forward with no response. They told her it was all on my end why the probate hadn’t been filed.
My sister is not an heir nor a representative of an heir.
Okay, so we start emailing with both my sister and I. It is strained and the emails coming from the lawyer are very unprofessional, won’t answer any questions and use multiple exclamation points. I try to call and never get an answer or return call. But we know have a hearing to set me as the PR in place so I am willing to overlook it. (The buyers on the house are being patient and hopefully the offer is still on the table.)
Now we have an outbreak and are in a different world. I hadn’t heard from my attorney, but the city court posts online that anyone with county cases should contact the court clerk. So I do. She says to call back on Friday to make sure nothing changes. I receive an email from my attorney’s office to let me know that there is a administrative order in place and that my hearing is still on, but I will be the only one allowed in the courtroom. Okay.
So I go ahead and call on Friday like advised and because I hadn’t heard anything else from the attorney. They put me straight through to the judge (which I didn’t expect) who immediately suggests since it is a simple hearing that I appear my phone instead of driving 17 hours during a national emergency and pandemic. I am thrilled. She says to contact the law office to make sure that’s okay and that they bring my phone number to court.
They won’t answer or return my call. So I email. The only response I get is “why would you call the courthouse? I told you to appear in person on Tuesday.” I explain that the court clerk had recommended it and then related again what the judge had said. I also reiterated that I needed to know what to do in time to travel if necessary.
No answer. I’ve called and emailed again. I’ve texted her personal number. So now I don’t know what to do, but it looks like they maybe aren’t willing to agree with me appearing my phone (even though the judge suggested it) and I will have to travel against the advisement of medical professionals and the mandates of both my clients and my husband’s employer to show up at a 5 minute probate hearing. I will be traveling through states under lockdown.
I feel that my law office does not have my interest or the estates interest at heart. There has never been an apology for not filing the case nor for the lack of information. The estate is under $40,000, so I hate to cost it more by getting another attorney. But perhaps that would be best? What is your recommendation? I cannot get past the secretary/daughter to actually talk to the attorney. I haven’t had a discussion with him since 2016. It all goes to her and through her.
Ian Pisarcik says
It’s hard to know how long it will take to get your settlement check without knowing the specific circumstances of your case. In some cases, it’s not uncommon for it to take 2-3 weeks. Continue to contact your attorney. If you’re unsatisfied with the answers they are providing, contact your local state bar association and lodge a complaint.
Ian Pisarcik says
Martin,
It sounds like the lawyer your using may not be licensed. If that’s the case, the lawyer should be reported to your local state bar. Regardless, if you don’t believe the lawyer is acting ethically, can file a complaint with your local state bar association.
Melissa Gold says
Hello, Jennifer. I’m sorry you’re dealing with this and I understand your frustration. First, you might have more difficulty getting this resolved quickly now that many courts and municipal offices aren’t functioning at normal capacity because of the pandemic. Unfortunately, it might really delay things and it’s likely difficult to get the answers you need because of people working at home or otherwise unavailable under the circumstances. Many businesses and government entities are functioning only with essential employees, and you might not be able to get resolution quickly.
However, it seems that your issues with the law firm were happening long before the virus outbreak. If you believe that your lawyer has been ignoring you or handling the matter unprofessionally, you can definitely seek assistance from another lawyer. Your state bar association likely has resources that will be available during the pandemic and can advise you of how to proceed with your court filings. Best of luck!
Mark Fowler says
Great site. Much useful information.
However, it is far to understanding of the failure of attorneys to respond. For example, there is no excuse for not responding to a request for an update because you have other clients or you are in a trial. Modern telecommunications, with smart phones and email enable any DILIGENT attorney to squeeze in a response to 12 inquiries per day even when involved in a large case or in court. I have no patience for paying people who are not doing their job.
Thank you for a very useful site!
Ian Pisarcik says
Mark,
Thank you for your comment!
Julee Moyer says
Hi, I’ve been dealing with my neglectful attorney(s) for almost five years. Now my husbands and I are being affected by this in many ways and we have tried to be patient but this is too much and too long. Now being sent bills that should by now be paid. We aren’t sure what to do anymore and we aren’t getting response from attorneys.
Ian Pisarcik says
I’m sorry to hear that you are having trouble with your attorney. You can terminate your relationship with your attorney at any time and hire a different attorney. When you do so, your old attorney is legally obligated to turn over your case file to your new attorney (so your new attorney doesn’t have to start from scratch).
Another option, if all attempts at communication have been exhausted, is to contact your local state bar association and file a complaint against the attorney.
Concerned says
I hired a lawyer in a kinship case regarding a relative who passed away two years ago without a will. The kinship hearing case was due to be heard in court on May 3rd. I never heard from my lawyer to confirm the date when I would have to appear in court so I called Surrogate’s Court and was told all kinship cases have been adjourned indefinitely. My lawyer never even notified me of the postponement in when I was to appear. Should I terminate the relationship and get a new lawyer?
Melissa Gold says
Hello. It’s hard to determine what’s happening with your lawyer. A lot of courts and systems are functioning differently right now because of various local restrictions related to the novel coronavirus, but your lawyer should have let you know if you had a court date. Your lawyer might be working remotely but their normal workflow could be disrupted. Since the court is saying that kinship cases are adjourned indefinitely, it might make sense to wait until the system is up and running again, and then reach out to your lawyer. If they continue to be unresponsive, you might need to consider finding a new attorney.
Enjuris has COVID-19 resource page you can use for answers to your legal questions. Stay well.
JRL says
I hired two attorneys last year to file a demand for arbitration in January. Each month, I receive an explanation that they are too busy with other cases along with an invoice for several thousands of dollars for them to simply ‘discuss’ my case with each other. Meanwhile, the statute of limitations continues to run on my case but I would lose even more time to fire them and start over, which they know. At one point, they said they would file by “tomorrow,“ but that was months ago and now they aren’t responding to my requests for an update.
I am not aware of another profession that permits professionals to charge thousands of dollars for fees and not follow through with what they said they will do. I am losing my case because of their negligence and time is running out.
I understand they are busy with other cases and they have personal lives but if they couldn’t manage my case, they should not have taken it, accepted my money and run the clock on the statute of limitations, which is clearly doing more harm than good.
Ian Pisarcik says
I’m sorry you are having trouble with your attorneys. Sometimes lawyers respond better to letters sent to them (as opposed to emails or telephone calls). You might suggest, in your letter, that you will need to find different representation if the lawyers don’t move your case forward. If you end up switching lawyers, your current lawyers will be required to send your file to the new attorney so you shouldn’t have to “start over.”
Sally says
I was in car accident in 2018. Guy ran red light while speeding. My car was totaled in t bone hit. I got PI lawyer. Was told other driver said it was my fault. Over a year later I received a settlement. My insurance company did not pay anything to other driver. Now almost 2 years later I received a summons for lawsuit from other driver and his insurance. I called the lawyer ask about this. He said call legal aid it’s a debt collection case. Ledal aide says no its personal injury which they dont handle but would email a list of lawyers that would give me a discount since legal aid referred me. Been over two weeks and no replys to emails or messages from legal aid or my former lawyer. I have to respond to summon on time. The lawyer I used 1st time said he would send me copy of 911 call and anything else. I have tried local bar association, got referral to lawyer. He told me my case is unusual and there is no money in it for a PI attorney to go after. That I understand. I dont feel comfortable replying with out legal representation. I can not walk in anywhere due to shut down. I really want more time to find a lawyer that will help me. Can I just go to big PI lawfirm and ask for copies since I get no reply?
Emma Brown says
I filed bankruptcy 2 years ago paid the attorney full fee decided to work on building my credit and pulled out not once was i offered a refund or any monies back well i ended up filing again with same law office who i started in February and still no petition filed and we are in June so i asked for full refund this time and now he is sending condensing emails that i have saved for future reference
Ian Pisarcik says
I’m sorry this is happening to you. If you’re not happy with your bankruptcy attorney and you don’t think the issue can be resolved, I would recommend terminating the relationship and hiring a new attorney. Your old attorney will be required to turn over your file so your new attorney won’t have to start from scratch.
You can also contact the disciplinary department at your state bar if you want to file a formal complaint against the attorney.
AJK Legal says
This is one of the best articles I have seen in a long time! Thank you for sharing~
Ian Pisarcik says
Thanks for the comment!
Sally says
I paid my attorney 2/10/20
To file law suit. Still as 6/11:20 I’ve not heard anything from the attorney I have emailed and left messages. I have never received anything in the mail about my law suit. The law suit should of been filed months ago but nothing. I feel they took my money and ran
Melissa Gold says
Hi, Sally. I can understand why you’re concerned. Sometimes the legal system does take time, and attorneys are very busy. Especially right now, in the midst of the COVID-19 crisis, attorneys might be especially taxed, working remotely, short-staffed, and the courts might not even be open where you live. BUT, that’s not a reason to ignore your calls and messages. An attorney has an obligation to respond to your communication once you’ve retained their services. If you can’t get any answers from the office after contacting them in a variety of ways, you might want to contact your state Bar association to make a complaint about the lawyer or seek advice.
Duane says
Hello,
I hired an attorney on Monday for my custody case Friday (tomorrow). Its last minute I know but my case was filed during Covid-19 when I was out of work and had to get my finances together. Since retaining, I have not been able to talk to my lawyer. He keeps saying that he will call back. My case is tomorrow and I havent spoken to him once! I dont have the money to hire another attorney….please help!
Melissa Gold says
Hello, Duane. I hope that by this point, your attorney has called you back. If they know you have a court date or proceeding, and they’re saying they will return your call, hopefully they will respond and be there for court. However, a lawyer is ethically obligated to respond to your communications. If you can’t get satisfaction from your lawyer, I’d suggest a call to your state Bar association to make a complaint.
Melissa Gold says
Hi, Sally. I’m sorry this is happening. Without knowing the facts, I don’t know if you need personal injury defense or if it is a debt collection, as you were told. However, there has to be a lawyer who’s willing to advise you. Realize that a lot of law firms are working remotely right now because of COVID-19, which might change their processes a bit, but they should be returning phone calls. If your lawyer isn’t helping, you need to find someone else who will.
You have a few options. If Legal Aid isn’t able to help, you can try calling your state or county bar association, which sometimes also has lists of attorneys. You can also use the Enjuris law firm directory, which is also a good resource for finding an attorney in your area. Best of luck.
Sam Luther says
It’s a great source of knowledge; I think it will be helpful for lot of people who are looking for advices what to do when your lawyer ignores you… Thank you very much for sharing this article, this is really helpful for me, thanks again!
Melissa Gold says
Thank you for commenting, Sam! We appreciate your kind words.
Dommar says
hello, My mother Dies Sept of 2017. She assigned a trustee that she gave 25 percent of her estate to. There are 11 other beneficiaries. I my brother and sister brought a suit against the trustee. I hired an attorney that work at a florida law firm. he always had excuses about not responding saying he was sick or on vacation. next thing I know I get a letter that he is starting his own firm and moving across the state. This became obvious why he was not prompt with many issues. The letter gave me the choice to get a new attorney or keep him. I did not like the way this went down so I called the firm that I hired him at requesting that they continue with this case. At first things seemed OK but very shortly after I was not getting any response to email. during a phone call I would get a staff member. I let weeks go by before writing another email or call. Now it has been 4 weeks that I have asked what the next step is for us to do. this is two months since the judge signed the agreement. I get no information about what come next. getting a new attorney at this point would seem pointless and threatening to get one would just prompt a termination letter. I thought about calling the florida Bar. I don’t even know if that would be of benefit. what would you suggest?
Melissa Gold says
Hello, Dommar. It sounds like you’re still involved in the lawsuit against the trustee, if I’m understanding this correctly. If that’s the case, you should find a lawyer who can take the case. If the first lawyer and his firm is unresponsive or unhelpful, you can (and should) find a different lawyer. You can explain the situation to your new lawyer and ask their advice about how to manage it moving forward. If you need a Florida lawyer, there’s a list in the Enjuris law firm directory that you can use as a resource. Best of luck!
Robert Ritchie says
I am also sorry for everything you are going through. I am wondering if you could contact me State Bar in your area and see if you have any other options. I wish you the best!
jill says
Im 61 and just learned this -never needed an attorney and paid 5000 for a lie in writing and day of court -told different. Had faith and trusted for what? court been postponed for 8 months and six letters stating outcome. Find out court postponed again and letters wrong?.
Ian Pisarcik says
Jill,
It’s not clear to me what letters you are referring to. Can you be more specific?
As for the delays, unfortunately many courts have had to delay “nonessential” hearings due to the coronavirus. It’s really unfortunate for people who want their cases resolved, but it’s also understandable that certain cases (such as emergency restraining orders) should receive priority.
Al says
In the beginning my Divorce attorney would call me to talk about the case or to ask me to come to Her office to go over a straight but now it’s been 8 and a half months sense I’ve spoken with Her and I understand that my state has been on a form of lockdown because of the coved 19 thing but I’ve called her, emailed her, and text her, still with no reply I payed her everything up front and now fear that may have been a mistake is there anything that I can do to get her do her job or make her give me back my money any help would be greatly appreciate thank you for your time
Ian Pisarcik says
The legal system has certainly slowed during the pandemic, but your lawyer should still be responding to you in a reasonable amount of time. I would recommend sending your lawyer a letter explaining your concerns and requesting that she contact you immediately.
If you want to fire your attorney, your attorney will need to return any funds that were not earned. If you’re having trouble obtaining funds that are rightfully yours from your attorney, consider reaching out to the Pennsylvania Lawyers Fund for Client Security.
Arrius lion says
I’ve learned back flipping recently and a day ago I was back flipping on a trampoline and I froze mid back flip high in the air and landed right on neck, my entire body and all my weight landed and compressed my spine quick. Throughout that day I didn’t really feel a stiff neck or severe pain, it was just this morning when I started feeling a sharp pain when I move my neck. I researched about this and assumed this was whiplash. It’s not too painful anymore after I have been doing neck exercises and ice packs. I am 15 years old, when will it be necessary to see a doctor? I’ve been worried all day if this can be life threatening.
Ian Pisarcik says
Thank you for the comment. I’m not a doctor and so I can’t give you medical advice. However, neck injuries can be very serious. Seeing a doctor could help prevent further damage and also give you piece of mind.
Joey B says
“This article was very informative which I enjoyed reading, Thank you.
Ian Pisarcik says
I’m glad you found it helpful!
Yampaglia Law P.C. says
Hello , thanks for sharing this information , this is very helpful for me.
Ian Pisarcik says
I’m glad you found the information helpful!
Joel D.D says
I have benefited a lot from reading your very informative and helpful article. Thank you very much.
Ian Pisarcik says
I’m glad the article was helpful!
Connie says
Do you think 6 years is long enough to settle a relatively simple case?
Melissa Gold says
Hi, Connie. This is tough to answer… “simple” to you might still take a long time in the court system. The question is whether your lawyer is actively working on the case — negotiating with other parties, conducting discovery, or taking other action. Most legal motions have required time frames within which the lawyer needs to respond, but these can take a long time. You are always welcome to contact your lawyer and find out what’s holding up the process, how you might be able to expedite it, and see what they say. If the lawyer is unresponsive, you might need to seek another lawyer. Good luck!
Kansas City immigration lawyer says
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Ian Pisarcik says
Thank you for the comment! I’m glad you found the blog helpful.
Criminal Defense Lawyer in Ohio says
Hey! Thank you so much for sharing this blog with us.
Ian Pisarcik says
You’re welcome!
Frustrated says
I am literally in the EXACT same situation. I paid for the Divorce up front. The paperwork was all filed and the now the case is just sitting in Limbo. All the attorney would tell me in May of 2020 was that the case (I filed in Sept 2019 and it has been sitting in Limbo since Feb 2020) is that the courts are not seeing any non-essential cases. He replied with that explanation one time. It has now been more than 365 days. My divorce is STILL not finalized and he has not returned ONE call, or email. I check in every few months (not even close to hassling to ask what is going on and he doesn’t even bother to respond in anyway. I don’t see how a lawyer can get away with acting like this. He figures he filed his paperwork and did his job, if I don’t have what I asked for that is my problem I guess- but at the end of day the Divorce is NOT FINAL. It has been a nightmare in buying my new house and dealing with so much stuff. Frustrating doesn’t even begin to cut it.
Hannah says
The problem with that is most of us have given our money to the attorney. How can we afford to hire another one? It’s not fair. It’s like getting your roof done improperly,then hearing the roofer tell you to hire a new roofer.
Ian Pisarcik says
Thank you for the comment.
I certainly understand your concern. Switching lawyers is generally a last resort. With that being said, a recently-fired lawyer is required to turn over their file to a newly-hired attorney. Accordingly, the new lawyer won’t start from scratch and the money you paid your old lawyer work won’t be for nothing.
Maria says
Hello there the attorney got money from us and we never heard from him back, he doesn’t respond to phone calls or emails at all. Please advice what can we do to get our money back.
Melissa Gold says
Hello, Maria. I am sorry you’re in this situation. There are circumstances where the legal process moves very slowly (especially during the pandemic), but your lawyer should be responding to your phone calls or emails, even if there’s nothing new to report on your matter.
If you can’t get attention or response from your lawyer, you might have no choice but to hire a new attorney and request that they handle it. The other option is to contact your state bar association, which might be able to assist or provide additional resources.
Maria Gustis says
Thank you so very much
Ian Pisarcik says
Thanks for reading!
Chuck Vereen says
What a list of a common theme: lawyers are scams. It is ridiculous they garner such a high fee. They are all in it together, along with the judges. Its such a racket.
Jason Green says
Hi my name is Jason Green and I was in a car accident November 4th 2020 is now been 8 months I haven’t heard anything from my lawyer I don’t know which way to go I don’t know what to do maybe somebody can help me out with something but I’m stuck between a rock and a hard place and I was very injured very badly I have pictures I have the police report I have everything and I don’t understand why this lawyer is not connecting with me I didn’t did my therapy I just need some answers please
Kira says
I tore my rotator cuff while working at the post office. I had surgery in the beginning of 2019. My doctor had cleared me to go back to work without a post MRI. I was still having problems but my doctor said that the surgery went well and that nothing was wrong with that area. I went to another doctor and he ordered a post MRI and it showed that the surgery failed and the rotator cuff is still torn in several places. I was fired from the post office because they said they had not heard from me which wasn’t true. I took them the paperwork from the new doctor that said I wasn’t able to return to work. My attorney said that he would file the necessary paperwork so I could get my job back. I asked the attorney if I should file for disability since my shoulder is causing neck pain and I have nerve damage in that arm and the whole arm is going numb. My attorney never answered the question regarding disability. Fast forward a year later my attorney never filed any motions regarding my job he said that he doesn’t handle those issues and that he didn’t know what I was talking about. I also have the emails that told me that he would file the necessary paperwork. I have not received payments from worker’s comp for more than 2 yrs. I asked the attorney should I file for disability he still didn’t answer the question and I have contacted him several times and he doesn’t respond. It has been more than 2 months and I have not heard anything from him. Worker’s comp has been denying me treatment throughout this whole process and has not paid my hospital bill from surgery which they approved and my attorney has not addressed that either and the surgery was over 2 yrs ago. What should I do about my attorney flat out lying about my job and him not answering my phone calls or emails for a couple months?
mia says
I have been dealing with a simple breach of contract case regarding a house simple open and shut case per my lawyer and others I spoke with b4 hiring this one I have evidence to prove why my ex couldn’t refinance this case has been going on almost 21 months and sorry covid or not it was a open shut case. I advised my lawyer what I was requesting to prove my ex couldn’t refinance due to he wouldn’t get approved my lawyer requested what I wanted but my ex and his lawyer would never hand over of course my lawyer stated he would file contempt against my ex for not providing yet never did this has continued to happen my lawyer not doing what he says he will nor what I ask him to do which what I was requesting was further proof of them stalling on this case period regardless of covid. As well what my lawyer says over the phone is completely different then what is said now in emails. each time i speak to him over phone or email it changes. I feel my lawyer completely not fought for me at this point used every excuse not to get this case took care of on my behalf nor listened to me regarding the proof I was requesting, again this was a open shut case my ex breached the contract it was a easy win so 21 months later why is it I’ve lost everything I feel as if my lawyer was never on my side esp after he advised me he was friends with the other counsel during our last call a few weeks ago and yes once he said that he quickly changed it to collegues real fast. What do you all think?
Another Sucker says
We hired a probate lawyer in January when my father died. He has extreme trouble with calling and returning phone calls. He has stated that he has tried multiple times to contact my mother in law who has decided “one does not need a probate lawyer in TN”, which is of course false. He has also said he has filed and was working on gaining access to my late father’s bank accounts. After months of waiting around for call backs/progress I decided I was done with it and have decided to fire him. He refunded me the full amount! Say what? No billing charges or proof of case file has been forwarded. Is he a liar??? What kind of lawyer would give his time for free? I wouldn’t. Any advice? Should I contact the bar? TIA
Ian Pisarcik says
I’m sorry you are having trouble getting in touch with your attorney. Here are some reasons your lawyer may be ignoring you. Remember, you always have the right to terminate your lawyer and hire a new one. You can learn more about firing your lawyer here.
Jean says
I’m really nervous about these things. I already understood the idea they have other cases and lives. But I have no idea how long is a reasonable wait when you have a query or something you want to discuss.
I’m currently going through a child support and custody case which was said has a good chance of going well. But I would like to make sure my attorney won’t be blindsided by anything that might be brought up.
The opposing party has a lot of requests that do not work out well for the situation and has been throwing out false accusations/legal threats. I would like to be able to let her know the issue had with these requests, problematic events and my goals for court but I haven’t been able to do so fully.
I put it in writing hoping it would be clearer and work better than trying to call. I don’t know if I’m expecting responses too soon or whether none of that is needed because the case will go well w the info I’ve given so far.
What’s the average wait time when it comes to responses. And is it possible they won’t call back if they feel certain info isn’t nessesary? I have a case approaching next week and another next month. I’m really worried because I have no idea what to expect next week.
카지노사이트 says
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Ian Pisarcik says
Thanks for the comment!
Luis Cruz says
My dad got a lawyer after being injured by a police officer. They settled it in court in March. But my dad’s lawyer hasn’t contacted him since March. The company the lawyers work for told my dad (around June) that they got the money already but that company still had to pay the lawyers and therapy fees (?). My dad talks spanish only and the lawyers don’t. Is that a reason they haven’t met with him or anything? But they should have translators too, no? I just think they’re avoiding us.
Arlin says
My name is Arlin Warren and i was a victim of the opioids lawsuit and there was lawyers on Facebook advertising wanting people on pills I’f they was a victim the lawyer was out of Texas. Was contacted from email. Sent personal information but haven’t heard nothing back and signed the contract but my phone got lost and have no lawyer contact me and I have no way of who it is to even contact them, but I did receive a stack of papers of the bankruptcy from United States Bankruptcy court Southern district of New York In re PURDUE OHARMA L.P.and there was a deadline on voting on something but I’m limited to education don’t know what it was about now I’ma st srl trying to find the lawyer. Trying to find the one that I sent information to on Facebook how did I receive this paperwork and my name appears on this and it was sent to my address. can I get advise do I need a lawyer please advise me what I need to do.
Jf says
Yes. My lawyer stated hed file something. Never sent in my response to a motion or documents and he has a high profile case and I get it. He also thought I wouldn’t get what I asked for but did think something would change more in my favor somehow. I sent an email asking to withdraw from his caseload. I think I need someone more available. This is painful and I sometimes need advice every other weekend for exchange because we have an agreement that visitation only happens if this this and this does. And I have a written order that I’ve been verbally told to be flexible on which now I’m confused. How flexible ? Why am I not following it as written ? Why is it written like this then? Why do we even have orders and why am I the only one being flexible when this is what he presented me with. I need to know how flexible to be literally every exchange because he always has a box or two he misses. And I’d rather not assume that myself.
Hes much more responsive now since I told him I felt like no one was listening to me and I’m frustrated.
Hopefully it sticks.
Ian Pisarcik says
I’m sorry you had a difficult time with your attorney. It sounds like things are better now, and I hope that remains the case. If not, remember that you always have the right to terminate your attorney-client relationship and find a new attorney.
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Ian Pisarcik says
Thanks for the comment. I’m glad you found the information helpful.
Rena says
A friend of mine is married to an IV drug user with a legal separation in place nearly 8 months ago in Indiana. I’ve watched her bank account get cleaned out twice, her entire house destroyed requiring her to spend nearly $10k of her own money to repair the home to make it suitable for sale.. which her spouse was then given half of the proceeds of.. and on and on and on. she works here in Texas and because a separation was filed in Indiana she couldnt file here. After eight months of no return calls, the lawyer finally replied this week by phone to scheduled a phone conference. she’s lost so much money and stands to lose even more if the vehicle her estranged spouse demanded to be returned as it’s in their name and then demanded through her attorney for her to pay off the loan in the spouses name. I’m starting to get angry at the attorney as none of these costs would’ve been incurred had they just replied to her. is there anything at all she can do at this point ?
Melissa Gold says
Hi, Rena. I am sorry to hear that your friend is dealing with this. A lawyer has an obligation to maintain communication with a client and to keep abreast of filings, motions and other issues related to the claim that the client retained them to handle. However, this case sounds a little confusing because you mention that the separation agreement was filed in a different state… which doesn’t mean that a Texas lawyer can’t help, but it might make things more complicated.
Without all the facts, it’s hard to know your friend’s best approach but she should definitely be working with an attorney who’s responsive and committed to her case. If the lawyer has not returned calls for 8 months, she might wish to look for a different lawyer. She could find a Texas law firm using the Enjuris directory: https://www.enjuris.com/directory/lawyers/texas/. Best of luck to her, and thank you for being a good friend and looking out for her best interests!
$10k says
Me, too.
The pattern I’ve stumbled upon $10,000 into fees is that the lawyer is enthusiastic upon consultation and initial filings then they disappear once they feel they’ve worked enough for what they’ve charged; irregardless of if the matter they were hired for is settled. Or if they’ve met their obligations of the fee agreement.
I was in the middle of a custody case, at a crucial point where my child suffered a parental abduction. I called my lawyer in a panic and she wouldn’t come to the phone. The receptionist kept giving me conflicting excuses. Finally, when I was inconsolable, the paralegal tells me she’ll re-engage if I pay an additional $5000 up front because she felt she’d done enough on the case.
Melissa Gold says
I’m so sorry this is happening to you. I hope you and your child are safe. I’m not sure why you’ve engaged a series of lawyers who aren’t fully completing their contractual obligations, but like in any profession there are ethical lawyers and unethical ones. The next time you engage with a lawyer, do read the retainer agreement carefully and be sure that you understand the terms and the full scope of work that you can expect. If you believe that you’ve been treated unfairly or that you’re not getting the services you’ve paid for, you can call your state or local bar association and make a complaint or ask for guidance.
B says
I’m dealing with a custody case where my ex wife keeps my child from me. I’m on my 3rd attorney and my latest attorney got us into mediation and an agreement was made. It didn’t take my ex wife long to disregard the agreement and keep my child from me. My attorney was notified and said we need to get her into court than. Two months go by and I haven’t heard a thing. So I started calling and emailing him. Finally got a court date and the magistrate punted everything back onto the attorneys and suggested mediation. My attorney didn’t speak up that we’ve already done that. So I’m back to an agreement that the ex wife disregards at will. Summertime comes and the ex wife doesn’t honor her part of the agreement and allows me to have my child a fraction of time agreed to. So I notified my attorney. He said he’ll get me back into court to straighten this out and get me make up time. This time I was calling and emailing more often. But court never happened and I was never given a reason why. Today is one day shy of not seeing or hearing from my daughter in 3 months. I notified my attorney after 3 weeks in and he had me come in to sign the motion. After signing the motion, I was given a court date. Two days before the court date I called because I didn’t get any notification of a court. He explained that he wasn’t sure who to send the motion to, the ex wife or her attorney because he wasn’t sure if she was still be represented. A month later and over a dozen calls and a dozen emails expressing my concerns a motion was filed with my old signature and the motion leaves out all summer and was wrong on the amount of time I haven’t seen my child. It’s very frustrating to say the least. It almost feels like he’s helping my ex wife by sitting on his hands. I don’t know what to do anymore. Like I said at the beginning, this is my 3rd attorney.
Sara says
Hi thx for life changing responds, how about a public defender. Same rules applies to them also
Terry says
I don’t agree. He can send the file but if you seen him once and the retainer was 2500 and haven’t heard or see them since, its will be for nothing.
Tracy says
My situation is troubling me. My attorney fees were insane considering the duration of the divorce and it never going to trial. $26k, to be exact.
They understood that I was financially dependent on my (ex) spouse and that I would pay them in full upon divorce settlement. My banking institution could only allow $5k withdrawals daily, so I paid them $5k the first day, and another $5k the second day. On the third day, a partner from my attorney’s firm called and suggested I refinance my house and pay the remaining balance in full immediately. My attorney, understanding my situation suggested I pay 50% up front and $1,000/mo until paid in full. The woman I spoke with was not on board with that. I explained to her that I could pay the remaining balance, however that would leave me in a very tight spot financially. She said to ask my mortgage lender to refinance and call her back. When I called, they said they needed a divorce decree to prove I am the sole owner of the home. I called her back with that information – only having left a message because she didn’t answer. The next day, I opened my email to find a notice that the law firm was filing a lien against my home in the amount of $11,165. In a panic, I tried to call the firm and have left several messages but to no avail.
Then I really started to go through my “itemized” statements. Some of the charges are clearly erroneous. $4,995 divorce fee? Twice? On top of all the other hourly rates applied on actual work. Also, nowhere in the statements can I figure out where the $5,000 retainer fee was applied.
I feel like they know they’re ripping me off and they’re hiding behind this lien so I can’t dispute the charges.