Do lawyers have to respond to each other?

Asked by: Juston Fritsch  |  Last update: August 16, 2025
Score: 4.1/5 (2 votes)

In your case, a lawyer on one side may need to discuss some settlement options or details regarding the case with the opposing counsel. In many cases, it is necessary for lawyers to speak with one another to resolve issues regarding discovery, settlement or trial. Thus, the answer to your question is yes.

Do attorneys have to respond to other attorneys?

Keep in mind, however, unless mandated by law or court order, no ethics rule specifies that attorneys have to respond to other attorneys. If direct contact with the adverse party is made, you should question the party again to see if they are represented.

Is it normal for lawyers not to respond?

The Rules of Professional Conduct, which govern a California attorney's ethical duties, require an attorney to respond to inquiries from clients in a reasonable period of time, and to keep you aware of any significant developments in your matter. Try something other than emails. Call the office, or stop by the office.

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 long should you wait for a lawyer to respond?

The answer you will almost certainly get from most attorneys is that it depends. So there is no standard time frame, but assuming the client's question is not urgent, an attorney should normally respond within a week or so, absent extenuating circumstances.

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Is it normal to not hear from your lawyer?

At certain points, there may be weeks or months when your attorney is researching and writing or responding to a motion, preparing or responding to discovery requests, or preparing for depositions, and you may not hear any updates from your attorney. The lack of updates does not indicate a lapse in care for your case.

Why is my lawyer taking so long to settle my case?

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 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.

How do you know you have a bad lawyer?

Any behavior that compromises professionalism, such as rudeness, tardiness, or lack of respect for client confidentiality, should raise concerns about the lawyer's competence. Additionally, ethical misconduct or disciplinary actions by regulatory authorities may indicate a lack of integrity and competence.

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.”

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.

What are my rights as a client of a lawyer?

You are entitled to an attorney who will be capable of handling your case; show you courtesy and consideration at all times; represent you zealously; and preserve your confidences and secrets that you reveal in the course of the relationship, to the extent permitted by law.

What happens if you ignore a lawyer?

Your non-response to the demand letter from an attorney may be considered evidence of intentional wrongdoing or willful violation of the other party's rights. Moreover, penalty provisions and attorney's fees may substantially increase the amount you owe.

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.

Why do lawyers use delay tactics?

One common defense tactic in litigation is delay. This is particularly true in insurance coverage and bad-faith litigation. The longer an insurer holds on to the benefits, the more money it makes. The delay tactics start the moment the suit is filed.

Does my lawyer have to listen to me?

Attorney is the agent of his client. She has to act as per the client's instructions, provided that such instructions are not detrimental to the client interest.

How to tell if an attorney is good?

The following are some of the most important qualities a good criminal defense lawyer in California should possess:
  1. Criminal Trial Experience. ...
  2. Resources To Investigate and Prepare Your Case. ...
  3. Good Communication. ...
  4. Negotiation Skills. ...
  5. Empathy For the Situation You're In. ...
  6. Making Promises They Can't Keep.

How do you know when to fire your lawyer?

The Most Common Reasons Why Clients Fire Their Lawyers
  1. 1) Lack of Communication. ...
  2. 2) Personality Conflicts. ...
  3. 3) Unrealistic Expectations by the Client as to The Value of Their Case. ...
  4. 4) The Lawyer is Not Qualified to Handle the Case Now That it Is “Complicated”

What is an example of a bad lawyer?

Other signs of an incompetent lawyer include poor communication, missed deadlines, lack of knowledge about relevant laws, unpreparedness in court, and general disorganization in handling cases.

What are lawyers not allowed to do?

A lawyer should use the law's procedures only for legitimate purposes and not to harass or intimidate others. A lawyer should demonstrate respect for the legal system and for those who serve it, including judges, other lawyers and public officials.

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…”

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.

How long should I wait for lawyer to respond?

You should never feel like you can't contact your attorney to ask a question. If you call or email them, they should get back to you by the next business day.

What is the longest a settlement can take?

What is the longest a settlement can take? The duration of a personal injury settlement can vary dramatically, with complex cases potentially taking several years to resolve, though there's technically no absolute maximum time limit beyond the statute of limitations.

Why do lawyers drag out cases?

Delaying the trial can serve many purposes. If the delay is based on proper reasons, it may allow the defense and the government to adequately prepare for the trial. For example, both sides can have ample time to gather and review evidence in the case.