I feel like my lawyer has abandoned me. I sent him some questions via email because our schedules didn't seem to match. He hasn't gotten back to me after a week. I asked Avery simple question 4 days ago and I still haven't heard anything. What should I do?
he or she may be ill, out of town, or on trial.
contact his or her staff to make an appt. to see the lawyer. discuss your issue and the communication issue.
or, if you are truly unhappy with that lawyer, go interview others and hire one of them.
Michael Scott SchiffmanFamily Law AttorneyHinsdale, IL ·
I agree with Gary. Things do come up, and problems arise. Try calling his office; leave a message, and follow-up with another email. If you hare having concerns, schedule a face-to-face meeting with him. You always have the right to retain a new attorney.
I agree with both of the previous answers. That said, I would call the attorney's office, state that I called before, that I understand things come up, but that if I don't get a call back within a day, I presume my attorney is too busy to handle my case.
Your question points up the not uncommon issue of family law clients' expectations of their attorney and of the legal process. Family law cases are more personal than most other types of legal matters and the clients often have little experience with the legal system. The client may have either unspoken or unrealistic expectations as to how their matter will proceed and the level of communications with their attorney. Whether you speak to your current attorney or retain a new attorney, you should inquire as to how the attorney engages with the client and express your desired level of interaction with the attorney. Let the attorney know whether you prefer email, mail, telephone and/or in-person communications and inquire as to how the your communications will be handled. Each attorney and each client will have slightly (or vastly) differing approaches to managing the expectations for the process and communications. You should be able to find an attorney whose approach is in line with your expectations.