Tuesday, May 14, 2013

When Your Family Lawyer Isn’t Working Out


A divorce or custody filing can be difficult enough without a shoddy attorney at the helm. However, legal processes are naturally an emotional affair, and it can be difficult to know when your attorney has crossed the line and whether you should fire him or her. Since you are paying for their service, you certainly have the right to fire them, however it may not always be in your best interest to do so. Here are some steps to let you know when and how to fire your attorney in favor of one of the best family lawattorneys.

1. Find out if your lawyer has violated any laws. This can be tricky for someone who is not familiar with the legal process, however most people have an inherent understanding of what actions would be considered ‘wrong.’ Bribery, intimidation, providing false evidence in court, or obstructing the court or the other legal party from accessing evidence are all examples of unlawful behavior.


2. Find out if your lawyer has behaved unethically. There are many things an attorney can do that are unethical, including disclosing confidential client information, representing clients who have a conflict of interest, or forming a relationship with his or her client. If you believe your lawyer has acted unethically, you should file your claim with the Texas Supreme Court’s disciplinary committee.

3. Gather any financial documents. One of the most common complaints amongst legal clients is that they are being overcharged. If you suspect your lawyer is ‘padding’ his bill, you should try to get an itemized bill, as well as a copy of your original fee agreement. While there are few standards outlining legal fees, there tends to be a general rate, and it is clear to most attorneys what is considered excessive.

If you suspect you are being swindled by your attorney, you may be hesitant to work with another divorce lawyer. However, unless you received formal legal training, you likely will make many costly mistakes if you try to navigate the legal process without representation. To speak to one of the best family law attorneys in the Denton area, go to KoonsFuller.com today!