Legal malpractice is an unfortunate reality in the legal profession. Clients trust attorneys to handle their cases professionally and competently, but sometimes attorneys fail to meet the standards of their profession, causing significant harm to their clients. If you believe you have been a victim of legal malpractice, the team of experienced New Jersey legal malpractice lawyers at The Epstein Law Firm, P.A. is here to help you understand your rights and legal options.

As one of the most trusted professional malpractice law firms in the state, The Epstein Law Firm, P.A., offers a wealth of experience and insight into the intricacies of legal malpractice cases. Our skilled lawyer negligence attorneys in Rochelle Park, NJ, work tirelessly to seek justice for clients who have been wronged by legal professionals they trusted. We are adept at handling complex legal claims, and we have a track record of achieving significant outcomes for our clients. 

If you or someone you know has been a victim of legal malpractice, do not hesitate to reach out to our New Jersey legal malpractice lawyers. We offer a free consultation, during which we’ll help you understand your rights and explore the options available for your specific case.

What is Legal Malpractice?

Legal malpractice happens when an attorney, who has been hired by a client, fails to deliver competent services, subsequently causing harm to the client. Such instances are more than just disappointing or frustrating; they can drastically impact the client’s life, finances, and potential legal outcomes. For instance, cases can lapse, transactions can falter, and improperly drafted documents can lead to further legal complications.

Examples of Valid Legal Malpractice Claims

Legal malpractice can take many forms. Some of the most prevalent examples we encounter include failure to meet deadlines, negligence in preparing for a trial, improper document drafting, and failure to conduct adequate due diligence. 

Other instances of legal malpractice may involve: 

  • Breaches of fiduciary duty, such as ignoring a client’s instructions
  • Settling claims without the client’s consent
  • Pursuing negligent strategies
  • Failing to adhere to the statute of limitations
  • Failing to serve a complaint
  • Neglecting to gather sufficient evidence or call necessary experts

While not every mistake made by an attorney qualifies as malpractice, those that cause damage to the client and represent a breach of the duty of care expected of a legal professional can form the basis of a legal malpractice claim.

Legal Malpractice Claims in New Jersey: The Basics

In New Jersey, as in most jurisdictions, three key elements must be demonstrated to establish a legal malpractice claim:

  • The existence of an attorney-client relationship: You need to prove that there was a contractual agreement wherein the attorney agreed to provide legal services.
  • Breach of the duty of care: This means that the attorney made mistakes or failed to do something that a competent attorney would have done under similar circumstances.
  • The breach resulted in harm or damages: It is not enough to show that the attorney made a mistake. You must also demonstrate that the attorney’s actions or inactions directly led to harm or loss.

While these criteria may seem straightforward, each element can present its own challenges. This is where the expertise of skilled New Jersey legal malpractice lawyers, such as those at The Epstein Law Firm, P.A., comes into play. We are adept at navigating the nuances of legal malpractice law to build a strong case for our clients.

Beyond Traditional Legal Malpractice: Fee Disputes and Law Firm Breakups

At The Epstein Law Firm, P.A., our legal malpractice capabilities extend beyond the traditional boundaries of the discipline. We also represent clients in fee disputes between lawyers and cases involving law firm breakups.

Fee disputes between attorneys can occur for various reasons, such as disagreements over the division of legal fees among lawyers from different firms who collaborated on a case. Such disputes can become highly contentious and may involve substantial amounts of money. 

Similarly, law firm breakups, which often involve complex issues related to client lists, ongoing cases, and firm assets, can also lead to legal disputes. In such situations, the expertise of our seasoned lawyer negligence attorneys in Rochelle Park, NJ, can prove invaluable.

How The Epstein Law Firm, P.A., Can Help

Choosing a legal malpractice attorney is a significant decision. By choosing The Epstein Law Firm, P.A., you are choosing a team that brings extensive experience, a proven track record, and an unwavering commitment to your case. We understand the substantial impacts of legal malpractice and work relentlessly to hold negligent attorneys accountable.

Our proven approach includes:

  • In-depth Investigation: We conduct thorough investigations to gather all necessary evidence supporting the claim of malpractice. We examine every detail of the case to build a compelling claim.
  • Expert Testimony: Given the technical nature of legal malpractice claims, expert testimonies often play a critical role. We leverage our extensive network to bring in appropriate experts who can provide credible testimonies to strengthen your case.
  • Strategic Negotiation and Litigation: We are skilled negotiators and litigators. Whether it involves negotiating a settlement with the attorney’s malpractice insurance provider or taking the case to trial, we are prepared to fight for you every step of the way.

Statute of Limitations for Legal Malpractice Claims in NJ

It’s essential to understand that legal malpractice claims in New Jersey are subject to a statute of limitations. Generally, you have six years from the date of the incident of malpractice to initiate legal action against your former attorney. Failing to file within this timeframe can potentially forfeit your right to sue. As such, it is crucial to bring your claim to our attention as soon as possible, so we can begin the process promptly.

Contact our Experienced New Jersey Legal Malpractice Lawyers for a Free Case Evaluation

Legal malpractice claims in New Jersey can be complex, requiring a comprehensive understanding of both the legal and procedural aspects of such cases. With a team of experienced New Jersey legal malpractice lawyers, you can ensure that your rights and interests are thoroughly protected. At The Epstein Law Firm, P.A., our lawyer negligence attorneys in Rochelle Park, NJ offer unmatched legal representation for victims of legal malpractice.

Remember, the law is there to protect you, even from those entrusted to uphold it. If you have been a victim of legal malpractice, reach out to us today at 201-231-7847 or fill out our convenient online contact form for a free consultation about your case. We are committed to helping you navigate the legal system, ensuring that those who fail to uphold their professional responsibilities are held accountable.

Legal Malpractice Services In Areas Nearby

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Contact the law offices of The Epstein Law Firm, P.A. today at (201) 231-7847 for a free consultation.

Frequently Asked Questions About Legal Malpractice Claims in New Jersey

How does legal malpractice happen?

What is legal malpractice in NJ?

Legal malpractice in New Jersey occurs when an attorney fails to deliver competent services, causing harm to the client. Examples include failing to adhere to deadlines, neglecting to gather necessary evidence, not being adequately prepared for trial, failing to conduct due diligence, and poorly drafting legal documents. These actions must represent a breach of the duty of care expected of a legal professional and directly lead to harm or loss to form a basis of a legal malpractice claim.

Can you sue for malpractice in NJ?

Yes, you can sue for legal malpractice in New Jersey. If an attorney’s negligence, incompetence, or intentional wrongdoing has resulted in harm or loss to you, you may have a valid legal malpractice claim. Such claims can be complex and require skilled legal representation.

How do I sue a lawyer in NJ?

Suing a lawyer in New Jersey involves several steps:

1. Establishing the attorney-client relationship
2. Proving that the attorney breached the standard of care
3. Showing that the breach caused you harm or loss

Given the complexity of these cases, it is recommended to seek the help of a skilled legal malpractice attorney. The Epstein Law Firm, P.A., for instance, has extensive experience in handling legal malpractice cases in New Jersey and can provide the necessary guidance and representation.

How do I prove legal malpractice in NJ?

To prove legal malpractice in New Jersey, you must demonstrate three key elements:

1. An attorney-client relationship existed,
2. The attorney breached the standard of care, either through negligence, incompetence, or intentional wrongdoing,
3. The attorney’s breach directly resulted in harm or loss to you.

Proof may involve a range of evidence, from written communication demonstrating the attorney’s negligence to expert testimony supporting your claims.

How long do you have to sue an attorney for malpractice in NJ?

In New Jersey, the statute of limitations for legal malpractice is generally six years from the date of the attorney’s malpractice. However, certain circumstances can impact this time frame, either extending or shortening it. For example, the “discovery rule” may extend the deadline if you didn’t discover and couldn’t have reasonably discovered the malpractice until a later date. It’s crucial to consult with a legal malpractice attorney promptly to ensure your claim is filed within the appropriate time limits.

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