Holding Negligent Attorneys Accountable for Weak Case Preparation
Every case depends on facts, evidence, and thorough preparation. Attorneys in New York are required to investigate claims, research the law, and gather evidence during the discovery process. When a lawyer fails to perform these basic duties, clients can lose their cases — not because of the merits, but because of their lawyer’s negligence.
At The C. Paul Law Firm P.C., we represent clients across [City] and New York who suffered financial or legal harm due to an attorney’s inadequate investigation or failure in discovery. We fight to hold negligent lawyers accountable and help clients recover damages for the justice they were denied.
Call today for a free consultation: (212) 551-PAUL
What is Inadequate Investigation or Discovery?
- Investigation: A lawyer’s duty to research the law, analyze the facts, and interview witnesses.
- Discovery: The formal process of exchanging evidence, such as documents, depositions, and interrogatories.
When a lawyer neglects these steps, clients may face devastating results — cases dismissed, evidence excluded or claims severely weakened.
Common Examples of Inadequate Investigation or Discovery
| Type of Failure | Example | Legal Impact |
| Failure to Research Law | Attorney misinterprets statute or misses legal precedent | Case strategy flawed, claim lost |
| Ignoring Witnesses | Not interviewing or deposing key witnesses | Loss of critical testimony |
| Failure to Gather Evidence | Not subpoenaing records or preserving documents | Evidence lost, case weakened |
| Missed Discovery Deadlines | Late or incomplete responses to discovery requests | Court sanctions, dismissal |
| Failure to Challenge Evidence | Not filing motions to suppress harmful evidence | Opponent gains advantage |
Proving Malpractice for Inadequate Investigation
To succeed in a claim, clients generally must prove:
- Attorney-Client Relationship – You formally hired the lawyer.
- Breach of Duty – The lawyer failed to adequately investigate or conduct discovery.
- Causation – The failure harmed your case.
- Damages – You suffered financial, legal, or emotional losses.
Compensation for Victims of Attorney Negligence
If your case was harmed by inadequate investigation or discovery, you may be entitled to damages for:
- Value of the lost lawsuit or settlement
- Financial harm caused by weak representation
- Wasted legal fees paid to the negligent lawyer
- Costs of hiring new counsel to repair the damage
- Emotional distress from loss of justice
Frequently Asked Questions
Is losing a case always malpractice?
No. Malpractice requires proof that the lawyer’s inadequate investigation or discovery failures directly caused harm.
What if my attorney missed discovery deadlines?
Missing court-ordered deadlines can seriously damage a case and may justify a malpractice claim.
Can I sue if my lawyer didn’t call key witnesses?
Yes. Failure to investigate or secure witness testimony can be malpractice if it harmed your case.
How long do I have to file a malpractice claim in New York?
Generally 3 years from when the malpractice occurred or was discovered.
Serving [City] and the Greater New York Area
We represent malpractice victims harmed by inadequate investigation or discovery failures in [City], Manhattan, Queens, Brooklyn, the Bronx, and across New York.