How to write a complaint letter against a lawyer?

Asked by: Oliver Rice  |  Last update: July 13, 2025
Score: 4.9/5 (38 votes)

The form or letter should be as clear, specific and detailed as possible when explaining your complaint. The materials in your complaint should include the names, phone numbers and addresses of you and your attorney as well as copies of any pertinent documents, papers, and other information connected to the complaint.

How do you write a powerful complaint letter?

Information To Include in Your Letter
  1. Give the basics.
  2. Tell your story.
  3. Explain how you want to resolve the problem.
  4. Describe your next steps.
  5. Send your complaint letter.
  6. [Your Mailing Address]
  7. [Your City, State, Zip Code]
  8. [Your email address]

How to write a complaint letter against an attorney?

Clearly State Your Complaint

As mentioned earlier, it's important to be clear and specific about the issues you're experiencing. State the problem in a clear and concise manner, providing specific dates and details whenever possible. Avoid making emotional accusations or attacks. Stick to the facts.

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 do you write a formal legal complaint?

The elements of a legal complaint typically include the names of the parties involved, a statement of facts, the legal claims being made, and a demand for relief. Each of these elements plays a crucial role in the lawsuit, contributing to the overall narrative of the case.

Tips For Writing A Complaint Letter, Without A Lawyer!

24 related questions found

How do you begin writing a complaint?

Tips for writing a successful complaint letter
  1. Structure. ...
  2. Address the letter to a real person. ...
  3. Be honest and straightforward. ...
  4. Maintain a firm but respectful tone, and avoid aggressive, accusing language. ...
  5. Include your contact information. ...
  6. Tell them what you want. ...
  7. Do not threaten action. ...
  8. Keep copies and records.

How do I write a complaint letter about unprofessional behavior?

Basic rules
  1. keep your letter to the point. You need to give enough detail for your employer to be able to investigate your complaint properly. ...
  2. keep to the facts. ...
  3. never use abusive or offensive language. ...
  4. explain how you felt about the behaviour you are complaining about but don't use emotive language.

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 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.

Are lawyers afraid of bar complaints?

Many lawyers dread a bar complaint like nothing else. Just to contemplate getting one makes our palms sweat and shoots fear into our hearts. When it happens, we generally don't post it to social media, saying we were wronged. We keep it secret, telling a few friends and maybe getting ethics advice.

What not to write in a complaint letter?

Focus on how the problem can be solved, not on petty details of the problem. Stick to the facts and avoid emotional statements. Try to give the letter a polite, positive tone, not a negative tone.

What is attorney misconduct?

Attorney misconduct is unethical or illegal conduct by an attorney.

How to find a lawyer to sue another lawyer?

Seek referrals from trusted sources, such as friends, family, or other attorneys who may have experience with legal malpractice claims. Online reviews and legal directories can also provide valuable insights into an attorney's reputation and track record.

What are good lines for a complaint letter?

I feel I must complain to you about… I wish to complain in the strongest terms about… REQUEST FOR ACTION I would like you to investigate this matter, and let me know your decision. I would like a full/partial refund as soon as possible.

How to write a strongly worded letter of complaint to 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.

What is most important in a letter of complaint?

Writing a good complaint letter

1. Be concise and stick to the facts. 2. Include essential information relating to the product or service that you bought or received.

What is an unethical lawyer?

Some examples of unethical attorney behavior include: Neglecting Scheduled Meeting Attendance. Inappropriate Language Usage in Legal Practice. Unilateral Decision-Making in Client Cases.

What makes a lawyer ineffective?

To constitute ineffective counsel, a defendant's attorney's performance must have fallen below "an objective standard of reasonableness." Courts are "highly deferential," indulging a "strong presumption that counsel's conduct falls within the wide range of reasonable professional assistance." Strickland permits ...

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 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.

How do you tell a lawyer off?

Here are some tips to keep in mind:
  1. Always terminate the relationship in writing. Even if you fire your attorney in a verbal exchange, you should follow up by sending a written termination letter. ...
  2. Get to the point. ...
  3. Be firm. ...
  4. Be polite. ...
  5. Ask for a copy of your case file.

What to do if you don't trust your lawyer?

If you think your attorney has acted unethically

You can complete a complaint form online or download a PDF complaint form from the State Bar's website. You may also call the State Bar at 800-843-9053 (in California) or 213-765-1200 (outside California) to discuss the complaint-filing process.

What is a good example of a complaint letter?

Dear [Contact Person]: This letter is to [notify you {or} follow up on our conversation of {date}] about a problem I am having with the [name of product or service performed] that I [bought, leased, rented or had repaired] at your [name of location] location on [date].

How do I write a letter of unprofessionalism?

You can follow these steps to help you write a formal letter of reprimand:
  1. Outline a clear purpose. ...
  2. Cite company policy. ...
  3. Acknowledge positive qualities. ...
  4. Detail necessary changes. ...
  5. Explain the next steps. ...
  6. Demonstrate your confidence. ...
  7. Sign the letter.

How to start an official complaint letter?

A complaint letter format will typically begin with the sender's details, followed by stating who it's addressed to, the date, and then the letter itself. The opening paragraph should state your reason for writing, and the meat of the text will go into detail about the matter.