In a previous blog post, we discussed what you should do if you feel that your lawyer is negligent. Understanding the steps to take is crucial to resolving your issue and holding your negligent attorney accountable for their actions.
In today’s post, we will conclude our discussion with three more important steps to know.
3) Fire your lawyer
Yes, you can fire your lawyer. There is absolutely no need to continue working with someone you feel is unprofessional, unethical or negligent. You may still have to pay the fees for the previous legal work that your lawyer did for you. (If you feel that your attorney has been overcharging you, you may not have to pay the fees in full.)
4) Find a legal malpractice attorney
Take your case to a reputable attorney who specializes in legal malpractice. The field of legal malpractice deals with lawyers who have acted unlawfully. There are certain attorneys who make a career out of going after these unscrupulous bad seeds. Bring any documentation that you can. This include records from your original case as well as records detailing your attorney’s dodgy actions.
5) Complain to your state bar association
To file a complaint against your attorney, you should contact New Jersey’s Office of Attorney Ethics. This is the body that deals with disciplining lawyers who have committed malpractice. The penalties can range from admonition to temporary suspension to permanent disbarment. In some cases, lawyers who have committed criminal acts may even be arrested and face criminal prosecution by the state.
