There is simply no excuse for an attorney who can’t file documents on time or one who misses important hearings in your case. Missing a court deadline could result in disastrous consequences for your divorce and may even amount to malpractice.
It’s a bad sign if your attorney is always running late, especially if it’s to an important meeting or a court hearing. Your lawyer isn’t your doctor, and you shouldn’t have to wait hours past your appointment.
Although you shouldn’t worry if your attorney forgets the name of your fourth child, there's a major problem if your lawyer doesn’t know anything about your case. Your attorney should remember the basics about your divorce.
Your attorney should know your case status at any given time. It’s okay if your attorney needs to check the docket or case notes to verify certain items. However, your lawyer should be able to tell you what’s happening in your divorce when you ask.
It's usually a bad sign if your attorney consistently fails to return your calls within a reasonable time. A lawyer who doesn't respond to numerous messages probably isn't giving your case the attention it deserves.
Many attorneys focus on one or two practice areas, such as family law or criminal law. A lawyer who doesn’t understand the basics of a divorce or who can’t explain the court process probably isn’t qualified to handle your case. You may want to get a second opinion from another divorce attorney, who can review your lawyer's work and let you know if there's a problem.
Each jurisdiction has its own specific rules that attorneys must follow. If your lawyer doesn’t understand local laws or procedures, your case may end up taking much longer than necessary, or even worse, being dismissed because your attorney failed to meet essential requirements.
There’s no reason to keep an attorney who belittles or demeans you.
A lawyer’s dishonesty is a serious red flag. An attorney who lies to opposing counsel or a judge won’t hesitate to lie to you.
There’s a difference between an assertive, take-charge attorney and one who bulldozes their way through your divorce. Your lawyer should be your zealous advocate, but shouldn’t cause unnecessary contention in your case.
You don’t want a lawyer who becomes too emotional or weepy in court. But then again, you need an attorney who believes in your cause and is passionate about your case.
You shouldn’t keep a lawyer who submits sloppy work to a judge or who comes to court unkempt or inappropriately dressed. Unfortunately, your lawyer’s lazy ways can give a judge the wrong impression of you and your case.
Great attorneys come with many different styles and personalities. However, you should steer clear of hiring an attorney that's too afraid to defend you or advocate on your behalf. You need an attorney who’s comfortable in the courtroom and addressing a judge.
It may be time for a new attorney if your legal bills are sky high, but not much is happening in your case. Review your lawyer’s bills carefully for accuracy: It may be time to fire your attorney if you’re clearly being overbilled.
Your lawyer should be arguing for you, not with you. Remember that your attorney works for you: If you’re unhappy with any aspect of your attorney’s style, and it's effecting your case, it’s time to search for a new lawyer.
