Legal Ease Blog: More on bad clients- How do you identify them?
Many 'bad clients' exhibit these characteristics or warning signs:
They are overly concerned about the fee, ask about the fee before you have an opportunity to discuss their legal problem, won't talk to you about their budget or don't know what it is;
They have tunnel vision about the matter and don't want to listen to new ideas, aren't interested in other options, or can't face reality about their role in creating the situation;
Their expectations are over-exaggerated, particularly for their budget or time limitations;
They need everything in a rush;
They don't keep the initial appointment, show up late, or fail to call when they say they will (particularly in combination with the previous warning sign);
They don't listen or don't understand simple initial instructions;
They take a long time to return your retainer agreement or to provide requested documents or materials;
They've fired (or been fired by) several lawyers before you;
They don't exhibit an understanding of the issues involved, even after you explain them;
They don't show respect to you or to other attorneys or staff in the office;
***
Read entire article by Allison C. Shields on her very useful Legal Ease Blog.