When Your Divorce Attorney Fails You
Family law cases are deeply personal—and deeply impactful. When your attorney makes serious errors, the consequences can affect your finances, your parenting rights, and your future. Legal malpractice in divorce or custody matters is rare, but it happens. Knowing the red flags can help you protect yourself early on.
What Is Legal Malpractice?
Legal malpractice occurs when an attorney fails to meet the standard of care expected in the legal profession, and that failure causes harm. In a divorce or custody case, this could mean missed deadlines, failure to present key evidence, poor negotiation, or a complete misunderstanding of the law.
Common Family Law Mistakes That May Cross the Line
- Failing to disclose or divide all marital assets
- Overlooking important custody evidence or expert testimony
- Missing critical court filing deadlines
- Giving inaccurate legal advice that leads to a worse outcome
- Neglecting to include enforceable provisions in a divorce agreement
Not every mistake rises to the level of malpractice—but if your attorney’s negligence changed the course of your case, it may be worth investigating further.
What to Do If You Suspect Malpractice
First, protect your legal position. Hire new representation to assess your situation and, if necessary, file a motion to reopen or modify your judgment. You may also have the right to file a complaint with the Massachusetts Board of Bar Overseers or pursue a civil malpractice claim.
Choosing the Right Family Law Firm from the Start
At Greco Law, we prioritize thorough preparation, strategic thinking, and clear client communication. We’ve helped many clients in Woburn, Stoneham, and surrounding areas rebuild after poor legal representation—and we’re committed to doing it right the first time.
Book a consultation to discuss your legal concerns and get the trusted support you deserve.
