Frequently Asked Questions About Legal Malpractice Lawyers Media Pa
The value of a legal malpractice settlement is unique to each case and depends on the amount of damages you can prove. Damages can include the lost value of your original claim, consequential damages, and other financial losses caused by the attorney’s negligence. Our attorneys can evaluate your case to determine a realistic settlement value.
To prove attorney negligence, you must demonstrate four key elements: that the attorney-client relationship existed, that the attorney failed to exercise the ordinary skill and knowledge expected of a legal professional, that this failure caused you harm, and that you suffered actual damages as a result. Our firm can help you gather the necessary evidence to prove your claim.
The statute of limitations for legal malpractice claims varies by state. In Pennsylvania, it is generally two years from the time you knew or should have known about the attorney’s negligence. It is crucial to act quickly to avoid missing the deadline. Our lawyers can help you understand the specific timeframe that applies to your case.
Common types of legal malpractice include missing deadlines, such as the statute of limitations; failing to conduct proper due diligence or investigation; having a conflict of interest; or settling a case without the client’s authority. The attorneys at Gibson & Perkins, PC have experience handling a wide range of these complex cases.
A legal ethics violation, such as a breach of confidentiality, may lead to disciplinary action by the state bar. However, it does not always mean you have a legal malpractice case. Legal malpractice requires proof of negligence and damages. Our firm can help you determine if an ethical breach also constitutes a viable malpractice claim.
You should look for an attorney with a proven track record of handling legal malpractice cases, a deep understanding of professional standards and ethics, and experience in professional liability litigation. The legal team at Gibson & Perkins, PC possesses these qualifications and is dedicated to achieving the best possible outcome for our clients.
A conflict of interest arises when an attorney’s duty to one client is compromised by their duty to another client, or by their own personal interests. If an attorney’s conflict of interest causes harm to a client, it can be grounds for a legal malpractice lawsuit. Our firm can help you identify and address these issues.