Not taking on all potential clients who walk through the door may seem like a bad business move, but being selective will reduce risks and bolster your practice.
Lawyers have an obligation to obtain information from other professionals when necessary to competently represent clients, but ensuring the accuracy and reliability of that information is also part of lawyers’ duty to their clients.
Even lawyers with tight schedules will reduce their malpractice risk by taking the time to ensure that they and staff members are effectively using the most appropriate practice-management software and technologies for their practices.
Suits against clients for unpaid fees are not strictly off-limits, but lawyers should thoroughly evaluate each potential case to determine if the fees at issue justify both the costs and the possibility the attempt will not succeed.
Just because technology makes it possible to communicate 24-7 doesn’t mean you should be available 24-7. Although it is important that lawyers be responsive to clients and keep them informed, it is equally important to set the ground rules for communicating early on to avoid giving clients unrealistic expectations.
