Whether it is an honest mistake or an unhappy client, you will likely face at least one malpractice claim during your legal career. There are steps you can take to reduce the number of claims you are likely to face.
These tips can help.
1. Create a system for tracking deadlines
Missing a deadline that negatively impacts your client’s case can result in a malpractice claim. Create a system to track deadlines. If a judge changes a deadline, confirm the change, delete the old deadline from your calendar and circulate the new deadline to everyone who needs to know.
2. Protect yourself against phishing attempts
You probably have access to a lot of sensitive information about your clients. You must protect this information. Be vigilant about not clicking unfamiliar links in emails and confirm that sites are what they claim to be before entering any login or other sensitive information.
3. Avoid taking cases outside your area of expertise
If you take a variety of cases, make sure you are knowledgeable about all of the practice areas you work in. If a case is too complex for your skill level, refer the client to another attorney or firm. Trying to take on a case that is beyond your skill can lead to errors that can result in a lawsuit.
4. Do not throw sensitive paperwork in the trash
Unscrupulous people may search through the trash for information about your clients. Always shred documents and dispose of them in a secure bin.
It is difficult to completely avoid professional malpractice claims. However, you can protect yourself by taking precautions.