Problem Client Type “F”

      The next type of problem client is one who simply refuses to do the homework assigned. I have always viewed my cases as an exercise in teamwork. I am very active in including the client in important discussions and always provide the clients with more information than they probably need. Regardless, I also expect my clients to participate in the handling of their case. The client who recoils when asked to perform homework is not likely to answer those discovery requests when they come in. That client is not likely to get you the documents you need to prove a particular point. This problem client doesn’t want to invest anything in their case or their matter but still expects results. A client that doesn’t have enough interest in their case to put the work into it that is required is probably headed for a bad result.  The lawyer that works for that client is probably headed for diminished credibility since he/she will not have the information necessary to make their points. Worse, the lawyer will probably provide misinformation in the handling of the case which the other side will promptly shove down the lawyer’s throat. Lawyers should never forget that their credibility is also on the line when they represent clients. If you work with a client who refuses to put in the effort to win, the lawyer’s credibility suffers as well.