Procrastination is a common issue in the legal field, affecting both lawyers and clients. This tendency to delay tasks can lead to significant complications, especially when it comes to meeting crucial deadlines in legal proceedings. The article highlights how client procrastination, in particular, can create challenges for lawyers and potentially impact case outcomes.
One of the most frequent examples of client procrastination is the delay in engaging legal counsel after receiving litigation papers. Typically, clients have 20 to 35 days to file a response, but many wait until only a fraction of this time remains before contacting a lawyer. This delay can severely limit the options available to attorneys, such as preparing comprehensive motions to dismiss or drafting thorough counterclaims. While extensions are sometimes possible, they often come with tradeoffs and may not always be feasible.
Another common issue is clients’ tardiness in reviewing and signing important documents like affidavits. When clients return these documents at the last minute, it forces lawyers to rush their preparations, increasing stress levels and the risk of errors. This is particularly problematic when lawyers need to cite affidavits in briefs, as last-minute changes can necessitate time-consuming revisions to multiple documents.
To address these challenges, several strategies for lawyers is suggested. First, they should anticipate and plan for potential delays in their legal strategies. Making tasks as easy as possible for clients, such as using electronic signatures instead of manual ones, can help expedite processes. Additionally, lawyers are advised to manage their own stress by understanding that while procrastination is common, clients rarely fail to complete crucial tasks entirely.
Ultimately, it should be emphasized that while lawyers cannot change client behavior, they can adapt their approaches to mitigate the effects of procrastination. By streamlining processes, managing expectations, and maintaining perspective on the realities of client behavior, lawyers can navigate the challenges posed by procrastination more effectively.