The trajectory of your case largely depends on your legal representation. That said, it’s important to take the time to identify a skilled and experienced lawyer to handle your case.
According to a reputable attorney in Anchorage AK, legal incompetence results in many unsuccessful cases. This article talks about the qualities of incompetent lawyers and how to avoid them.
Telltale Signs of an Incompetent Attorney
Does your lawyer provide timely feedback or do they take forever?
to answer your calls or emails? Do they make critical decisions without your input? You can still change your attorney if you notice any of the signs discussed in this article.
Lack of Enough Time for Your Case
Your case has seriously affected your life, so you expect it to be a top priority for your lawyer. The truth is that your attorney has other clients and cases to handle.
During the initial legal consultation, you should find out if the lawyer understands the emergency of your situation and whether they have enough time to handle your case effectively.
Poor Communication
Lawyers should have good communication skills because the nature of their work involves convincing different audiences. You might have hired the wrong legal representation if you don’t like your attorney’s communication style.
Professional lawyer should keep their clients informed on the progress of their cases. Also, they shouldn’t make critical decisions without soliciting their clients’ input.
Speaking out your concerns is the best way to help your lawyer because they could be oblivious to their communication problems. Let them know your expectations and give them a chance to correct the situation. Otherwise, hire another lawyer to represent you effectively.
Clashing Temperaments or Personalities
Our temperaments depend on how we were brought up. In other words, background and exposure play a significant role in shaping personalities.
Different lawyers have different personalities. While some lawyers are physically and mentally energized, others are passive. Also, different people approach issues differently.
You must ensure your lawyer’s temperament or personality doesn’t clash with yours. For instance, you may work well with an optimist if you’re an anxious type of person.
Your attorney should make you as comfortable and at ease as possible. They should have a reassuring demeanor. Otherwise, it’s wise to seek legal representation elsewhere.
Inefficiency
Inefficiency refers to failing to produce the expected results. Efficiency is also a measure of productivity. The qualities of inefficient lawyers can include:
- Always missing targets;
- Always late for meetings;
- Not organized or disheveled;
- Poorly groomed or unkempt, and more.
Lawyers with such traits may not be taken seriously in court, which can harm your case. Legal matters are subject to stringent timelines, so you need a lawyer who can meet deadlines.
Imprecise Billing
This point is important if the billing system is on an hourly basis. Attorneys’ aides earn hourly wages in most cases. That said, the bill should clearly state the following:
- Who worked on the case;
- What was done, and
- Time taken to complete the job.
Failing to justify your bills is a red flag and you should look for another lawyer.
Unprofessionalism
The legal practice is governed by the Attorney’s Code of Ethics—ACE, which states that attorneys must protect their clients’ interests, in accordance with the law, the dignity of the legal practice, and customs that aren’t contrary to the conscience of the attorney. The ACE prohibits unethical behavior in the legal field, including:
- Fraud and deception;
- Obstructing the course of justice;
- Mismanaging or mishandling client funds, and
- Inappropriate behavior in court.
It’s important to review the reputation and history of a lawyer before hiring them.
Success Rate
The reputation of a lawyer is a critical factor to consider when hiring a lawyer. Consider the number of cases like yours they have successfully tackled in the past
For instance, if you’re facing a traffic offense, inquire about the number of traffic-related cases they’ve successfully handled. This can help determine their experience in the field and success rate. Look for another person to handle your case if the one you’re interviewing has a low success rate in similar cases.
Negative Attitude
We all experience bad days, but it doesn’t mean new should be ever sulking, moaning, complaining, arrogant, or condescending. No one wants to feel like a burden, bother, or liability to their attorneys.
Look for a bright and warm lawyer if your relationship with an attorney becomes complicated. You don’t need an added problem in the form of a lawyer with a negative attitude, but someone to help solve your problems. A lawyer with a positive attitude should always be optimistic amidst challenges and reassure clients during hard times.
The information in this article can help you make informed choices when hiring legal representation. The success of your case is significantly dependent on the choice of a lawyer.
