We often hear from prospective clients who are frustrated in their efforts to communicate with their lawyers.Because these folks are represented, we can't discuss their cases but we hear tales of months long gaps in returned emails or calls and utterly absent communication.
It is awkward for us because we have a reputation for keeping our clients informed and can't conceive of failing to do so. The whole point of the attorney client relationship is to allay the need for injured crash victims having to negotiate with multi-billion dollar insurance behemoths.
So what we advise is for people dissatisfied with their lawyers is that they reach out to the lawyer to set up either an in-person meeting or at least a Zoom or telephone call to get their questions answered. If the lawyer has no time or appetite for this then the client can make up their own mind about whether that is in line with their expectations.
Often the supposedly unresponsive attorney repairs their communication problem and we never hear from the prospective client again. Of course, often they remain uncommunicative and the injured person discharges them and goes elsewhere.
The bottom line is that if you hire an attorney who can't be bothered to return your calls, emails or texts, you can fire them and find an attorney who will answer your questions and keep you informed.
