Building a record of communication failures
If you eventually need to file a complaint, change attorneys, or raise issues with the court, having a detailed record is essential. Start documenting now.
What to document
- Every call attempt -- Date, time, who you spoke to (receptionist, voicemail, etc.), and whether you received a callback
- Every email -- Save all emails, including sent messages. Print or screenshot if your email provider deletes old messages
- Office visits -- If you visit the office, note the date, who you spoke with, and what was discussed
- Promises made -- If someone says "the attorney will call you back by Friday," note it
- Impact on your case -- Document any deadlines missed, hearings you were unprepared for, or decisions made without your input
How to organize your records
A simple chronological log works well. For each entry, record:
- Date and time
- Method of communication (phone, email, letter, in-person)
- What you requested or communicated
- What response you received (if any)
- Follow-up needed
Why this matters: Bar associations require specific, documented allegations. "My attorney never calls me back" is less compelling than "I called on 3/1, 3/5, 3/8, and 3/12, left voicemails each time, and sent two emails. I received no response until I sent a letter threatening a bar complaint on 3/15."
Related Topics
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