How to Identify When Your Attorney is Deliberately Delaying Your Legal Case

Legal cases, particularly criminal ones, can drag on for seemingly interminable lengths of time. It's easy for the client to feel personally targeted and victimized by a sluggish legal system, but the reality is that all defendants face significant delays due to systemic pressures.

While recognizing the inherent complexities in legal proceedings, it's important to understand the signs that may indicate your attorney is responsible for unnecessary delays in your case. Here are key indicators to watch for:

Lack of Communication

One of the most prominent red flags is poor communication. Your attorney should keep you regularly updated on the status of your case. If they have a habit of not responding to your calls or emails in a timely manner or provide vague and generalized answers without specifics, there may be a cause for concern. Effective communication is crucial for managing expectations and ensuring you are fully informed throughout the legal process.

No Clear Case Strategy or Timeline

A competent attorney should have a clear strategy and timeline for your case. If your attorney does not present a roadmap or if the strategy is continually changing without a compelling explanation, this could signify unnecessary delays. Clear communication and transparency regarding the legal plan and timeline are essential for a successful resolution.

Frequent Delays Without Justification

Legal procedures can sometimes be delayed for legitimate reasons; however, frequent postponements of meetings, court dates, or filing deadlines without a valid explanation can be a sign that your attorney is extending the case unnecessarily. Such consistent delays without proper justification can be a warning that your attorney is intentionally prolonging the process.

Ignoring Client Input and Concerns

If your attorney consistently ignores your questions or concerns, particularly about the duration of the case, or if they fail to take your input into account when making important decisions, this can be a significant issue. Clients have the right to be involved in and understand the progression of their case. Regular and meaningful interaction with your attorney is key to a smooth legal journey.

Billing Inconsistencies and Unjustified Charges

Review your attorney's billing statements carefully. If you notice recurring charges for minimal or unclear tasks or see an unusual increase in billable hours that do not correspond to significant progress in your case, this could be a sign of unnecessary prolongation. Inconsistent billing practices and unjustified charges can be a red flag for excessive delays.

Minimal Progress on Your Case

If your case has made minimal progress over an extended period, especially in comparison to similar cases, this might indicate a problem. Competent attorneys should see measurable progress in their cases. If no significant advancements are evident despite the passage of time, this can signal that something is amiss in the legal representation.

Seeking a Second Opinion

If you suspect that your attorney is intentionally dragging out your case, consider getting a second opinion from another lawyer. An unbiased perspective from a different attorney can help determine whether the progression and timelines are reasonable or if there are undue delays. Addressing your concerns with your current attorney directly is advisable; however, if you remain unsatisfied, evaluating the possibility of finding a new attorney is a prudent course of action.

It's important to remember that every legal case is unique and can vary in complexity and duration. Clear and open communication with your attorney is crucial. This allows you to understand the reasons behind any delays and make informed decisions about the progression of your case. If your concerns persist, seeking a change in legal representation is a viable option, but it should be done with careful consideration of the potential impact on your case.