Best Legal Malpractice Lawyers in Los Angeles

About Legal Malpractice Law in Los Angeles, United States

Legal malpractice refers to the negligence, breach of fiduciary duty, or breach of contract by a lawyer that results in harm to their client. In Los Angeles, just like in the rest of the United States, lawyers are held to a high standard of professional conduct and ethics. If you believe that your lawyer has acted in a negligent manner, you may have grounds for a legal malpractice claim.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

You may need a lawyer for legal malpractice if your attorney failed to meet the standard of care expected of them and, as a result, you suffered financial or emotional harm. Common situations that may lead to legal malpractice claims include missed deadlines, conflicts of interest, failure to properly represent a client, and communication issues.

Local Laws Overview

In Los Angeles, legal malpractice is governed by California state laws along with case law that has been established by the California Supreme Court and lower courts. It's important to understand the statutes of limitations, the burden of proof required in legal malpractice cases, and the potential damages that may be sought.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the statute of limitations for legal malpractice in Los Angeles?

In Los Angeles, the statute of limitations for legal malpractice is generally one year from the date that the malpractice was discovered or should have been discovered with reasonable diligence.

2. What do I need to prove in a legal malpractice case?

To prove legal malpractice, you must demonstrate that your attorney breached their duty of care, that this breach caused harm to you, and that you suffered damages as a result.

3. Can I sue my lawyer for malpractice if I lost my case?

Losing a case does not necessarily equate to legal malpractice. To establish legal malpractice, you must demonstrate that your lawyer's actions or inactions fell below the accepted standard of care.

4. What damages can I recover in a legal malpractice case?

Damages in a legal malpractice case may include financial losses, emotional distress, and punitive damages in certain situations.

5. How much will it cost to hire a lawyer for legal malpractice?

Many lawyers who handle legal malpractice cases work on a contingency fee basis, meaning they only get paid if you win your case. It's important to discuss fee structures with potential lawyers before hiring them.

6. Can I file a complaint against my lawyer with the State Bar of California?

Yes, if you believe your lawyer has acted unethically or incompetently, you can file a complaint with the State Bar of California for investigation.

7. Will my case go to trial if I file a legal malpractice claim?

Not all legal malpractice cases go to trial. Many cases are resolved through negotiation, mediation, or arbitration. However, if a fair settlement cannot be reached, your case may proceed to trial.

8. Can I hire a new lawyer to handle my legal malpractice case?

Yes, you have the right to change lawyers at any point during your legal malpractice case if you feel that your current representation is not meeting your needs.

9. How long does a legal malpractice case typically take to resolve?

The length of time it takes to resolve a legal malpractice case can vary depending on the complexity of the case, the willingness of the parties to negotiate, and the court's schedule. Some cases may be resolved in a matter of months, while others may take years.

10. What should I do if I suspect my lawyer has committed malpractice?

If you suspect that your lawyer has committed malpractice, it's important to document all relevant communication, gather evidence of the harm you've suffered, and consult with a legal malpractice attorney to discuss your options.

Additional Resources

For more information on legal malpractice in Los Angeles, you can contact the State Bar of California, the Los Angeles County Bar Association, or consult legal resources such as legal aid organizations or pro bono legal clinics.

Next Steps

If you believe that you have been a victim of legal malpractice in Los Angeles, it's important to seek legal advice as soon as possible. Consult with a qualified legal malpractice attorney who can review your case, advise you on your options, and help you pursue the compensation you may be entitled to.