Your attorney is legally obligated to provide their professional services with the level of skill and care that a reasonably competent attorney would in a similar situation. You may be entitled to compensation if they fail to do this and you suffer harm or losses.
It could be a case of negligence by your attorney, conflict of interest, failure to file or even fraud and misrepresentation. Understanding how much you can recover is essential when seeking compensation for legal malpractice.
The types of damages you can recover
You can recover a range of damages as a victim of legal malpractice. First, you are entitled to compensation for the actual financial harm you suffered due to your attorney’s negligence. This can include the money you lost because of their mistakes and your legal expenses.
In some cases, you may also recover damages for the emotional distress you endured due to your attorney’s actions. Punitive damages may also be awarded to punish the attorney for their negligence and deter others from similar behavior.
The circumstances of your case matter
Every situation is different. The amount you can recover with a legal malpractice claim in New York largely depends on the specifics of your case. The extent of your losses or other harm will determine the compensation you are entitled to. Presenting a strong claim supported by relevant evidence can help your case.
It is equally prudent to take swift action. You do not want your claim to expire from a legal viewpoint. You cannot file a legal malpractice lawsuit after the three-year deadline, which may mean waiving your right to compensation. Seeking qualified guidance can help you navigate the settlement process and increase your chances of getting the compensation you deserve.