Share your needs with us, get contacted by law firms.
Free. Takes 2 min.
Legal malpractice, like in most jurisdictions around the world, is taken seriously in Ajah, Nigeria. It occurs when a lawyer breaches a duty to a client causing damage to the client. This could occur due to negligence, breach of contract, or breach of fiduciary duty. This aspect of law aims to ensure that the practice of law maintains its professional integrity and protects clients from harm arising from unscrupulous practices.
If you believe your lawyer has acted in a way that is negligent or breached their duty, leading to financial loss, a lawsuit, or any negative legal outcomes, you may need a legal malpractice lawyer. They assist in cases where your original lawyer failed to adequately represent you, missed deadlines, failed to present critical evidence, or conducted illegal or unethical activities. They help in suing the lawyer for their actions and claiming damages.
Nigeria’s legal system is based on English law and the Legal Practitioners Act is the primary law regulating legal practice. Under this Act, legal practitioners have a duty of care to their clients. A violation of this duty through negligence, incompetence, or breach of the professional code can lead to a malpractice claim. Furthermore, the Rules of Professional Conduct for Legal Practitioners provide specific guidelines that attorneys must adhere to.
Legal malpractice can happen when a lawyer fails in performing their duty, acts negligently, doesn't meet the legal standard of care, breaches the fiduciary duty or the contract. This malpractice must result in harm or loss to the client.
Yes, you can sue your lawyer for poorly representing you, but you will need to prove that their actions have led to substantial harm in your case.
If you suspect your lawyer has committed malpractice, the first step is to seek advice from a legal malpractice lawyer. They can help you understand whether you have a case and guide you through the legal process.
You may seek compensation for the financial losses you’ve incurred directly as a result of the lawyer's actions. Additionally, in some exceptional cases, you may also seek punitive damages.
Typically, you have up to three years from the date of the incident to file a legal malpractice suit, but it may vary depending on specific circumstances of the case.
The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) and the Legal Practitioners Disciplinary Committee are valuable resources for those seeking advice or wanting to report unethical conduct by lawyers. They provide information, guidance, and support to clients who believe their lawyers have committed malpractice.
If you suspect you are a victim of legal malpractice, consult a professional malpractice lawyer immediately. They can give you appropriate advice on your situation and guide you through the necessary legal proceedings. You should also report the incident to the NBA, which can facilitate procedures against the attorney in question.
