As an expert in the legal field, I have encountered my fair share of difficult lawyers. Whether you are a client or a colleague, dealing with a nasty lawyer can be a challenging and frustrating experience. However, there are ways to better manage the situation and ensure that your case or work is not negatively affected by their behavior.
1.Find Common Ground
One of the first strategies I recommend is to try and find common ground with the difficult lawyer. This could be through shared interests, similar cases or even just acknowledging their expertise in a certain area.By establishing a connection, you may be able to diffuse some of the tension and make it easier to work together.
2.Ask Why
If you are unsure why the lawyer is behaving in a certain way, don't be afraid to ask them directly. This can help you understand their perspective and potentially find a solution to any issues that may have arisen.3.Separate the Person from the Problem
It's important to remember that the difficult behavior is not necessarily a reflection of the person as a whole. Instead, try to focus on the specific problem at hand and find ways to address it without attacking the individual.4.Communicate Your Concerns
If you feel that your lawyer is not adequately working on your case, it's important to communicate your concerns to them. This can be done through a courteous but firm letter, outlining your worries and expectations.This approach is more likely to get their attention without causing them to become defensive.
5.Avoid Threats
While it may be tempting to threaten legal action or file a complaint with the bar association, this is not a productive way to handle a difficult lawyer. In fact, it may only make the situation worse and cause them to become even more defensive.6.Seek Mediation
If the situation becomes too difficult to handle on your own, consider seeking mediation. This involves a neutral third party who can help facilitate communication and find a resolution that works for both parties.7.Document Everything
In case the situation escalates, it's important to document everything that happens between you and the difficult lawyer. This includes any conversations, emails, or other forms of communication.This can serve as evidence if needed in the future.
