Choosing an attorney to represent you is one of the most important decisions you will make during your case. The right attorney can make all the difference, but choosing the wrong one can complicate your case or even prevent you from recovering what you are owed.
To help protect yourself, here are key warning signs or red flags to watch for.
1. Lack of Clear Communication
A lawyer who doesn’t keep you informed or is hard to reach is a major red flag. You deserve timely updates, especially on deadlines, settlement offers, or investigator findings. If emails go unanswered, voicemails are ignored, or communications are routinely pushed off, that’s a concern.
Inadequate communication may be serious enough to violate the Model Rules of Professional Conduct. Even when it isn’t, it’s crucial that you understand what your lawyer is doing, feel valued by the attorney, and aren’t left in the dark.
2. Unrealistic Promises or Guarantees
Be wary of lawyers promising large settlements, speedy resolution, or guaranteed verdicts. These types of claims are dishonest and misleading.
Every case is unique, shaped by facts, evidence, and legal standards. Even with all the facts and evidence on your side, no attorney can guarantee the actions of an insurance company or jury.
3. No Trial Experience or Reticence to Litigate
Though most injury cases settle, lawyers who avoid trial or lack courtroom experience can hurt your case’s value. Insurers and defense lawyers consider a lawyer’s willingness to go to court when making offers. A lawyer afraid of trial may settle early — and for less than what your case deserves
A lack of courtroom experience isn’t always a cause for concern. A straightforward car accident case is unlikely to go to trial, especially when the facts are not in question or liability is clear. Some cases are inherently more complex, and you will want an attorney who is not afraid to go to trial if needed. This includes cases involving catastrophic injuries, nursing home abuse, and medical malpractice.
4. Overloaded or Disorganized Caseload
In smaller firms, lawyers without sufficient staff often juggle multiple responsibilities and can overlook important deadlines or details. In larger law firms, inefficient processes and case overload can contribute to chaotic case management.
Disorganization can lead to missed hearings or evidence falling through the cracks.
5. Fee Confusion or Ambiguous Billing
Fee disputes are a leading cause of grievance filings. An attorney should clearly explain their fee structure, whether it’s an hourly rate, flat rate, or contingency fee, as well as court costs and expenses. Vague language like “reasonable fee” or “we’ll figure it out later” is a red flag.
If you leave with questions or doubts about how much you’ll owe, consider that a warning sign.
6. Ethical Missteps or Misconduct Concerns
Misconduct can include conflicts of interest, misleading statements, or hiding information from you. While not every mistake is intentional, repeated or serious ethical errors are unacceptable. Disciplinary records or malpractice lawsuits should prompt serious concern.
Common attorney mistakes leading to malpractice include missed deadlines, improper filings, and bad advice.
Before hiring a lawyer, verify that they are in good standing with the State Bar of Georgia and check for any disciplinary history.
7. Pressure To Sign Without Time To Review
You should never feel rushed to sign an agreement. A good attorney will give you time to read and understand the contract. If you’re handed papers and told to “sign now,” it’s a red flag. This mindset reflects a transactional outlook rather than a relationship based on trust and mutual understanding.
8. Disrespect Or Lack of Compassion
Your lawyer’s attitude matters. You deserve respect, compassion, and understanding. If they dismiss your feelings or act rudely when you ask questions, it undermines your confidence in them. Lawyers with a “my way or the highway” approach may not be prioritizing your needs.
9. Lack of Experience Handling Your Case Type
It’s important to choose a lawyer who has relevant experience. Beware of attorneys who say they “do it all” or don’t seem very familiar with relevant statutes or legal requirements. A lawyer who lacks the necessary experience may harm or even mishandle your case, especially if they misrepresented their experience.
Contact a Savannah Personal Injury Lawyer at Bowen Painter Injury Lawyers for Legal Help
A lawyer’s communication, case management, ethics, and experience directly influence the outcome of your case. Spotting these warning signs early can help you choose someone who will guide your case professionally, respectfully, and aggressively when needed. These red flags can also tell you when it’s time to end a relationship with a lawyer who isn’t a good fit.
Call Bowen Painter Injury Lawyers to schedule a free consultation with one of our experienced, compassionate Savannah personal injury lawyers.
Contact the Personal Injury Law Firm of Bowen Painter Injury Lawyers in Savannah for Help Today
For more information, please contact our experienced Savannah personal injury lawyer at Bowen Painter Injury Lawyers to schedule a free initial consultation today. We have a convenient location in Savannah, GA.
We proudly serve Chatham County, Georgia, and its surrounding areas.
Bowen Painter Injury Lawyers
308 Commercial Drive, Suite 100, Savannah, GA 31406
(912) 335-1909
Open 24/7
Our firm is located near you. We have an office in Savannah
Find us with our GeoCoordinates: 32.0047854, -81.1083488
