Legal Malpractice Law Pittsburgh, PA

When a client is damaged because of error or negligence on the part of a professional person, it is possible to file a malpractice suit. A lawyer is required to conform to recognized standards of conduct established by his field. There are several types of legal malpractice: negligence, negligence in the client-attorney relationship, disputes over fees, and injury to a third party as a result of the lawyer’s representation. (This includes malicious prosecution, defamation of character and other abuses.)

A lawyer has an obligation to represent his client in good faith and to be an honest advocate. Above all he must be experienced, and possess a well-rounded understanding of the law. It is his responsibility to thoroughly educate the client about the possibility of success or failure of his claim. A lawyer must present his client with a complete and well-documented account of his services. When a client receives money in a settlement, it is the attorney’s obligation to turn funds over to the client promptly. If it does not occur, he may be required to pay interest.

A lawyer is responsible for the actions of all of those within his firm. Negligence can occur, for example, when an attorney or an associate gives inappropriate advice, fails to file documents on time, or prepares documents improperly.

An attorney may not benefit from his dealings with a client after the relationship is terminated if such a transaction results in an adverse effect on the client.

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