Legal malpractice cases are complex and require a high level of expertise. When individuals or businesses believe their legal counsel has failed to meet the standard of care, seeking the help of an attorney experienced in legal malpractice becomes imperative. This blog explores how such professionals can provide invaluable assistance throughout the process.

Understanding Legal Malpractice

Legal malpractice happens when an attorney does not meet the expected standards of practice in the legal community, resulting in harm to a client. Proving legal malpractice can be challenging, and it is here that an attorney's expertise becomes crucial.

Types of Legal Malpractice Cases

Legal malpractice cases can vary widely, but some common types include:

• Negligence: This occurs when an attorney fails to handle a case with the competence and care that a reasonable attorney would have used under similar circumstances. Instances of negligence may include missing important deadlines, failing to conduct proper legal research, or making significant errors in legal documents.
• Breach of Fiduciary Duty: Attorneys have a fiduciary duty to act in the best interests of their clients. Breaches can occur if an attorney acts in self-interest, such as in cases of settling a case for a lower amount to avoid a trial or misusing a client's funds.
• Breach of Contract: This occurs when an attorney does not fulfill the obligations as outlined in the contract with their client, whether it's failing to provide the agreed-upon services or not adhering to the cost arrangements initially agreed upon.

Understanding the specific type of legal malpractice experienced is a critical first step in preparing to file a claim. Each type requires a different approach to effectively demonstrate the attorney's failure and the resultant harm to the client.

Navigating Complex Legal Procedures

Legal malpractice cases often involve intricate legal procedures and rules. An attorney can guide clients through these complexities, ensuring all deadlines are met, proper procedures are followed, and the strongest possible case is presented.

Additionally, an experienced attorney can help gather necessary evidence, including documents and witness testimonies, to support the claim and prove that the attorney's actions fell short of the expected standard of care.

Expert Testimony

One crucial element in a legal malpractice case is providing expert testimony. Often, this comes from another attorney who can testify as to whether or not the defendant attorney's actions met the expected standard of care. An experienced legal malpractice attorney will have established connections and access to qualified experts who can provide this crucial testimony.

Navigating a legal malpractice claim can indeed be daunting and complex, but understanding its intricacies and enlisting the right professional guidance can prove to be significantly advantageous. Contact a local professional to learn more, like Edward M. Graves III, Accident and Injury Attorney.