Legal malpractice is one of the most costly situations that can occur; recent reports even show that total payouts due to these errors were nearing $1 billion as of 2020. Not only does this harm clients who come to attorneys for help, but it also weakens the profession's reputation.
When hiring an attorney, prospective clients have a reasonable expectation that their case will be handled with utmost morality, standards, and ethics. However, this, unfortunately, is not everyone’s experience, leaving clients with a negative outcome in their case.
What is Considered Legal Malpractice?
To appropriately assess whether legal malpractice contributed to your loss, it’s essential to be able to identify the signs. Legal malpractice can include negligence of an attorney, breach of fiduciary duties, breach of contract, and conflict of interest. Some of the most common examples include:
- Failing to file paperwork on time
- Neglecting to follow court orders
- Making false statements in court documents
- Disclosing confidential client information
- Failing to investigate a case properly
- Misappropriation of client funds or property
All of the above can lead to significant, costly delays in the case and force the client to start over.
What Should You Do If You Suspect Legal Malpractice?
Upon realizing your attorney has committed any of the above offenses, you should reach out to an experienced lawyer who can help you make a claim. Time is of the essence, so you must act quickly. Even if your initial case is at its completion, seeking another attorney's help can ensure you recover your losses.
To pursue a legal malpractice claim, you must be able to prove that the attorney acted negligently and that their negligence caused harm or damage to your case. It is also essential to provide evidence such as witness accounts, documents, and other relevant information supporting your malpractice claims.
If you believe you have been the victim of legal malpractice, do not hesitate to contact Weisberg Law. A member of our team can advise you on your options and help you make the best decision for your case. Call (610) 550-8042 today for a free consultation.