Massachusetts Personal Injury Library
Elements That Affect the Attorney/Client Relationship
When choosing a Massachusetts injury attorney, you will want to choose someone who you feel will represent you to the highest standard of loyalty and fairness. The fiduciary duty, or relationship of trust, between an attorney and their client is known as the attorney/client relationship.
In 1850, the U.S. Supreme Court stated:
“There are few of the business relations of life involving a higher trust and confidence than that of attorney and client, or, generally speaking, one more honorably and faithfully discharged; few more anxiously guarded by the law, or governed by sterner principles of morality and justice.” Stockton v. Ford, 52 U.S. (11 How.) 232 (1850).
The attorney/client relationship begins when a client has reason to believe that an attorney is representing their legal interests. This can be formed formally with the signing of a contract, or the payment of a retainer, or informally, simply when a client reveals confidential information. One significant aspect of the attorney/client relationship is that almost anything a client tells an attorney is in confidence and cannot be repeated.
Elements That Can Harm the Attorney/Client Relationship
The attorney/client relationship can be adversely affected in a number of ways. The most important factor in maintaining it is open and honest communication. Some elements that can cause a breakdown in that relationship include:
- Poor communication by the representing attorney
- Poor communication by the client
- Poor personal chemistry between the attorney and client
- The client has unreasonable goals or expectations about the outcome of the case
- The attorney does not adequately educate the client about the strengths and weaknesses of the case
- The client chooses to go to trial against the attorney’s recommendation
If you are planning to hire a Boston personal injury lawyer for advice or representation, it can be helpful to interview several attorneys, and choose the one who suits you best.
The Kiley Law Group, a law firm based in Andover, Massachusetts, takes time when speaking with you about your case and works with you on a contingent fee basis so there are NO FEES unless our trained personal injury lawyers wins your case. Call now to schedule a FREE evaluation of your case – (888) 208-1695.
