When you hire a lawyer, you trust them to act in your best interests, uphold ethical standards, and provide competent representation. Unfortunately, some attorneys fail to meet these obligations, causing significant harm to their clients. If you have suffered financial loss or legal setbacks due to an attorney’s negligence, you may have a valid claim for legal malpractice.
At Tune Law Group, LLC, we represent clients throughout New Jersey who have been let down by the very professionals they depended on during critical times. We understand how frustrating and disheartening it is to face additional challenges caused by your attorney while already dealing with a difficult legal issue—especially in sensitive matters such as divorce.
What Is Legal Malpractice?
Legal malpractice occurs when an attorney breaches the duty of care owed to a client and causes harm as a result. Not every mistake amounts to malpractice, but serious errors that violate the accepted professional standards can form the basis of a claim. Common examples of legal malpractice in divorce cases include:
- Missing important court deadlines or statutes of limitations.
- Breaching attorney-client confidentiality.
- Conflicts of interest or divided loyalties.
- Mishandling evidence or misapplying the law.
- Failing to conduct a proper investigation or discovery.
- Neglecting to inform you about key developments or offers.
- Providing incorrect or harmful legal advice.
- Failing to appear for court hearings.
- Abandoning your case without notice.
- Settling your case without your consent or against your interests.
Such errors can result in lost opportunities for favorable settlements, judgments, or fair outcomes, causing you substantial damage.
How Can I Prove Legal Malpractice in New Jersey?
To prevail in a legal malpractice claim in New Jersey, you must demonstrate more than mere dissatisfaction with your divorce outcome. Specifically, you need to prove these four elements:
- Attorney-Client Relationship: There was a formal relationship establishing the attorney’s duty to you.
- Breach of Duty: The attorney failed to meet the standard of care expected of a reasonably competent lawyer under similar circumstances.
- Causation: This breach directly caused you harm or worsened your legal position.
- Damages: You suffered actual, measurable financial or legal damages as a result.
Often, this involves showing that you would have received a better outcome in your divorce or related legal matter if not for your attorney’s negligence or misconduct.
What Happens if a Lawyer Commits Legal Malpractice?
Legal malpractice claims can lead to serious consequences for the attorney involved, including claims against their professional liability insurance. Many claims are resolved through settlements, but some require litigation to secure just compensation.
If malpractice is proven, you may be entitled to recover damages to compensate for your losses. Each case is unique, so outcomes depend on the specific facts and evidence involved. The best way to evaluate your options is to consult a legal malpractice attorney who understands both family law and professional negligence claims.
At Tune Law Group, LLC, we thoroughly review your case, answer your questions, explain the legal process, and help you decide the best path forward if you believe your former divorce attorney mishandled your case.
Why Choose Tune Law Group, LLC?
Legal malpractice cases, especially those involving divorce matters, are complex and challenging to prove. They require knowledge of both family law and the standards governing attorney conduct. Tune Law Group, LLC combines deep legal knowledge with trial experience and a commitment to holding negligent attorneys accountable.
We believe the justice system works best when lawyers are held to the highest standards. If your previous attorney failed you, we are here to protect your rights and help restore your confidence in the legal process.
Contact Our Divorce Lawyers at Tune Law Group, LLC
If you suspect your former attorney mishandled your divorce or family law case and caused you harm, don’t wait to explore your legal options. Contact Tune Law Group, LLC today for a free consultation. Call us at 908-434-1061 or contact us online to schedule your appointment with a Flemington divorce lawyer. Located in Whitehouse Station, New Jersey, we serve clients in and around Hunterdon County, Monmouth County, Whitehouse, and Tewksbury.