Can lawyers turn down cases?

Asked by: Lyla Stokes  |  Last update: July 9, 2025
Score: 4.3/5 (40 votes)

Larger firms may accept more expensive cases, but even they will reject a case that seems too risky. If your case is repeatedly rejected by firms of all sizes, it may be that the necessary investment outweighs the potential gains.

Why would a lawyer decline a case?

A lawyer would likely refuse a case if there's a conflict of interest, lack of expertise, inability to establish trust with the client, or if the case is frivolous or lacks merit. However, the reasons why they can refuse are much more extensive.

Are lawyers allowed to turn down clients?

There are instances where lawyers are justified, or indeed required, to refuse or withdraw from representation. This may happen if a lawyer's representation would violate the law or their professional code of ethics, or if there is a fundamental disagreement with the client.

Can an attorney deny a case?

Lawyers are people too, and if a client or case conflicts with the lawyer's personal feelings (or, in some cases, inspires too much empathy or sympathy) in a way that would compromise the lawyer's ability to provide proper representation, the lawyer cannot take the case.

Can a lawyer drop your case without telling you?

First, the attorney must give the client proper notice of the intended withdrawal as well as notices of upcoming hearing dates, etc. The attorney must also notify the court of the client's contact information so that notices can be sent directly to the client following the withdrawal.

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25 related questions found

What happens if my lawyer dropped my case?

If your attorney files a motion to withdraw from your case, it is essential to take prompt action. You may choose to oppose the motion and explain why you believe your lawyer should continue representing you. Alternatively, you can agree to their withdrawal and seek new legal counsel.

What should you not say to a lawyer?

Eight Things You Shouldn't Say to Your Lawyer
  • Do Not Say Anything to Your Attorney That Is Not True. ...
  • Do Not Exaggerate Your Injuries When Talking to Your Lawyer. ...
  • Do Not Tell Your Lawyer to Act On Your Behalf and Take Other Action Without Their Awareness.

Can your lawyer turn against you?

The law is clear that a lawyer cannot turn against their client, and any violation of this guideline can invite a stringent investigation from legal authorities. Accusations of treachery are taken seriously and may warrant criminal prosecution to ensure justice is served fairly.

How do you know if a lawyer will take your case?

Factors Lawyers Consider Before Taking a Case

Legal Merit: A lawyer will first assess the legal merit of your case. This involves evaluating the evidence and determining if the law supports your claims in the lawsuit. A case with strong legal foundations stands a better chance of being accepted.

Can my lawyer plead not guilty for me?

If you hire our law firm, we will enter a NOT guilty plea for you at your arraignment and you will probably not have to go to court, unless it is a felony.

Can a lawyer drop a client for being annoying?

The Rules of Professional Conduct of the State Bar of California (“Rules of Conduct”) specify three circumstances under which an attorney must terminate a client relationship: (1) where the attorney knows or reasonably should know that a client is bringing an action, conducting a defense, asserting a position in ...

Can a lawyer drop a client for being guilty?

Lawyers can refuse to defend someone for a variety of reasons, they are not likely to do so based on whether they are guilty or not guilty.

Why would a lawyer drop a client?

Withdrawal is mandatory if (1) the lawyer knows or reasonably should know that the action is being taken without probable cause and for the purpose of harassing or maliciously injuring any person; (2) the lawyer knows or reasonably should know that continued employment will result in a violation of the Rules of ...

Why do lawyers drag out cases?

It's frustrating when a legal case takes a long time to settle, but there are many reasons why your lawyer might need more time. They could be busy collecting evidence, dealing with complicated legal issues, or negotiating with the other side. Sometimes, waiting a bit longer can even result in a better outcome for you.

What if no lawyer will take my case?

Another lawyer may take your case or explain why your case is challenging. If you keep getting turned down, it's time to prepare to represent yourself in civil court or accept that your case isn't worth pursuing.

How do you know if your lawyer is selling you out?

How Can You Tell If Your Lawyer Is Selling You Out?
  • They Regularly Miss Deadlines and Appointments. ...
  • They Show a Lack of Interest in Your Case. ...
  • They Are Pushing You Too Quickly or Forcefully to Settle. ...
  • They Fail to Return or Answer Your Calls. ...
  • They're not Transparent in Billing and Payment Practices.

Why would a lawyer refuse a case?

A conflict of interest could arise if an attorney has previously represented an opposing party or if the new case could somehow compromise their duties to an existing client. To maintain ethical standards and protect the interests of all clients, an attorney may decline to take on a case where a conflict exists.

Which lawyer wins most cases?

Settings. Gerry Spence is widely considered one of the most successful trial and criminal attorneys in America. He has never once lost a criminal case — either as a prosecutor or a defense attorney — and he hasn't lost a civil case since 1969.

Do lawyers take cases they know they'll lose?

If an attorney thinks they will lose based on your liability, they may turn you down. If many attorneys continue refusing to take your case, you should keep looking. It might not be a lost cause and you might be able to find a lawyer willing to take your lawsuit to court.

Can I tell my attorney everything?

Even if you are guilty of the charges against you, your attorney is still bound by the confidentiality requirement and cannot share your information without your consent.

Does it look bad if your lawyer withdraws from your case?

Lawyers withdraw from cases all the time, and it usually does not impact the judge's perception of the client unless the client has had multiple changes in legal counsel with attorneys that have a good reputation with the court.

Can a lawyer defend someone they know is lying?

This means, amongst other things, that when representing the defendant, the lawyer must not knowingly lie to the court. Moreover, if a lawyer knows that the defendant (or a witness that they have brought before the court) has been lying to the court, they must go to that person and demand that the truth be told.

What should you never say in court?

Don't lie about anything, not even white [small] lies. If you are discovered to be lying, the judge may find it hard to believe you when you are telling the truth. Don't argue with the questioner. Don't ask questions back: “What would you do if…”

How do you tell if you have a good lawyer?

Do not focus solely on case outcomes; read what others say about a firm's conduct. Were they professional, punctual, and supportive? Did they go the extra mile to make the client feel included in the legal process? These reviews can be helpful as you decide whether a law firm deserves your trust.

What is the most common complaint against lawyers?

According to the ABA, the most common attorney discipline complaints filed with the bar association involve:
  • Neglect.
  • Lack of communication.
  • Misrepresentation or dishonesty.
  • Scope of representation.
  • Fee disputes.