Why It’s Worthwhile to Look for the Learning with Problem Clients
Mark Bassingthwaighte, Esq. Risk Manager, Alps
Don’t get me wrong, taking on a client who is needy and highly emotional as an example, doesn’t in and of itself make that client a problem client. If you are unable, unwilling, or simply don’t have the skill set to productively work with such an individual, however, don’t be surprised if that’s what you eventually end up with.
When it comes to problem clients, we all have a story or two to share; but what if it becomes more than that? What if a lawyer comes to realize that he or she is dealing with a problem client far more than once in a blue moon? It can happen, and if and when it does, it’s time to stop and do a little problem solving. It’s time to look for the learning.
Wait, how are you defining the term “problem client?” Are you saying problem clients are the fault of the lawyer? A problem client is what you end up with when you fail to establish or fail to maintain a productive attorney- Yes and no. Think about it this way. At the end of client relationship. Problem clients are often described representation of a problem client, be it riding things as having several of the following characteristics. They out to the bitter end or deciding to withdraw because can be demanding, confrontational, disrespectful, life is just too short, a typical response is to put it behind angry, unreasonable, needy, highly emotional, entitled, you and move on. If a lawyer does so and thereby vengeful and the list goes on. They may have unrealistic misses the opportunity for learning, then yes the expectations, have a personal agenda, be difficult to stay problem clients that follow are the fault of the lawyer. in touch with, and they are often problem payors at a On the other hand, if a lawyer takes the time to explore the evolution of the problem client looking for ways to minimum. 24
