Can you sue a lawyer for not doing their job in India?

Asked by: Richmond Leannon  |  Last update: October 19, 2025
Score: 4.7/5 (66 votes)

Yes. A client can sue their lawyer in India, if they believe that the lawyer is guilty of professional misconduct or is in contravention of professional ethics.

What can I do if my lawyer is not doing his job in India?

- You can approach against him with the Bar council of Punjab / or the same court Bar Association as well. Change your lawyer immediately and get him to sign an noc. Engage another lawyer. You may file a complaint against him in the state bar council.

Can a lawyer get in trouble for not doing their job?

If your lawyer is not doing his job, you may be able to sue him for malpractice.

Can I sue my lawyer in India?

The Supreme Court, in a judgment on May 14, declared that advocates cannot be sued by their clients under the Consumer Protection Act for deficiency of service. A Bench of Justices Bela M.

What is the most common complaint against a lawyer?

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.

How to Defend Yourself Against False Accusations In Court | 5 Tips to Handle False Allegation

20 related questions found

What is it called when a lawyer doesn't do his job?

Any time an attorney fails to meet the expected standards of his or her profession, their clients could take legal actions against them for what is called “legal malpractice.”

Can you sue a lawyer for misleading you?

To successfully establish a claim of misrepresentation against a lawyer, the client must demonstrate the following key elements: (1) the lawyer made a false representation of material fact; (2) the lawyer knew or should have known the representation was false; (3) the lawyer intended for the client to rely on the ...

How to complain against a lawyer in India?

Appeal to the Bar Council of India

An appeal to the Council from the State Bar Council shall be in the form of a memorandum in writing. If the appeal is in a language other than English, it shall be accompanied by a translation in English.

Can you sue for emotional distress in India?

Section 22 empowers the Magistrate to grant compensation and damages for the injuries, including mental torture and emotional distress, caused by the domestic violence committed by the appellant.

How much does it cost to sue someone in India?

In all suits triable by Court of Small Causes, the fee shall be 10% of the amount claimed subject to a minimum of Rs. 300/. 5. In all money suits, the fee shall be calculated at the rate of 10% of the claim involved in such suits when it does not exceed Rs.

How to sue an attorney for not doing their job?

To sue lawyer for negligence, you need to be able to prove the attorney didn't use the proper care in your case and missed a deadline, filed the wrong papers, didn't comply with court orders, or made other errors that were not intentional but were sloppy.

Can you sue for not doing their job?

Yes, a company can sue an employee for doing absolutely nothing, especially in a litigious society like the US. But more to the point, not doing your job is a breach of contract.

Can you sue a lawyer for not responding?

Your Lawyer Missed a Deadline

Failing to respond to discovery requests or file complaints on time can be detrimental to the client's case. Mistakes such as these can prevent key evidence from being admitted and alter the outcome of the case, which would create strong grounds for a malpractice case.

Can I fight my case without lawyer in India?

Section 32 of the Advocate's Act empowers you, the citizen, to appear before the court even if you're not an advocate. This means you can draft and submit your own petition, argue your case, and represent yourself throughout the legal proceedings. It's your right, granted by the law, to fight for your own justice.

Can a lawyer sue you for non payment in India?

Balram Prasad Sharma[3] the Supreme Court ruled that an advocate has the right to sue his client for his fees, if not paid, like any other professional.

How to fire a lawyer in India?

However, if he refuses to give the “no-objection”, you may approach the court (where the case is pending) for permission to change your advocate, which is generally granted by the court, subject generally to your paying the (due or remaining) professional fee to the existing advocate if the advocate insists.

How to sue someone in India?

Here is a step-by-step guide on how to file a civil suit in India:
  1. Step 1: Filing of Plaint. ...
  2. Step 2: Issuing of Summons. ...
  3. Step 3: Appearance of the Parties. ...
  4. Step 4: Interlocutory Proceedings. ...
  5. Step 5: Written Statement. ...
  6. Step 6: Examination. ...
  7. Step 7: Framing of Issues. ...
  8. Step 8: Filing of Documents.

What is an example of suing for emotional distress?

Examples of Emotional Distress Lawsuits
  • Medical malpractice. A physician may cause emotional harm to a person if they engage in treatments or procedures that may not be appropriate for the situation. ...
  • Witnessing a wrongful death. ...
  • Emotional distress after a car accident. ...
  • Nursing home abuse. ...
  • Personal injury. ...
  • Wrongful arrest.

Can I sue my employer for mental stress in India?

If the complaint is not resolved at the workplace, the victim can approach the labour authorities or the police, depending on the nature and severity of the harassment. In extreme mental harassment cases, victims can file a civil suit or criminal complaint as per the relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code.

How do I write a letter of complaint against a lawyer?

A clear statement of your complaint. This should be towards the top of your letter and should lay out exactly why you are dissatisfied. For example, if you believe the lawyer has lied to you, clearly state that you believe they have been dishonest. An easily understood statement of facts that back up your complaint.

Can I change my lawyer in India?

Yes. You can replace your lawyer if you have lost faith or confidence in your lawyer to represent you, you have the right to change counsel. Ideally, it would be good to speak with your lawyer about what is making you unhappy or uncomfortable and give that lawyer the chance to fix the problem.

How much do lawyers charge for legal advice in India?

Typically, these fees range from ₹5,000 to ₹20,000 per hour, varying based on the lawyer's reputation and the complexity of the case. In high-stakes legal matters, the overall cost can significantly impact decision-making.

Can I sue my lawyer for not doing his job?

Lawyers may make mistakes from time to time. A claim of malpractice may exist if your lawyer exhibited negligence in your representation. If your lawyer's negligence caused you to suffer harm or a less advantageous outcome or settlement in your case, you may have a claim to sue your lawyer for professional negligence.

What to do if your lawyer is ignoring you?

If your lawyer does not return your call, send them a letter and keep a copy. In the letter, describe what is bothering you and what you need. Suggest meeting with the lawyer face-to-face. Your next step would depend on the nature of the problem.

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.