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When you hire an attorney, you rely on them to protect your rights and guide your case effectively. But if your lawyer makes serious mistakes, your disability or employment claim can suffer lasting harm. Legal malpractice in these areas may delay benefits, weaken your position in negotiations, or even cause you to lose your case.
At Stanfield Bechtel Law, we help clients in Connecticut understand their options when poor legal representation disrupts a disability or workplace-related matter.
What Is Legal Malpractice?
Legal malpractice occurs when an attorney fails to provide the standard of care expected of a reasonably competent lawyer, and their error directly harms your case. It’s more than just losing a case. A malpractice claim typically requires showing that your lawyer’s mistake directly caused harm to your case or financial recovery.
Some common errors include:
- Missing filing deadlines or appeal periods
- Failing to submit the necessary documents or evidence
- Providing incorrect legal advice
- Mishandling settlement negotiations or contract terms
These types of mistakes can have lasting consequences in both disability and employment matters.
When Malpractice Impacts SSDI Claims
Applying for Social Security Disability benefits is already a detailed and time-sensitive process. If your lawyer overlooks deadlines, fails to submit medical records, or mishandles an appeal, you may lose out on benefits to which you are entitled. In some cases, a denial caused by malpractice means you have to restart the process, which could delay financial support for months or even years.
If you suspect your attorney’s mistake cost you benefits, you may be able to pursue both an appeal of the SSDI decision and a malpractice claim against the lawyer who mishandled your case.
Malpractice in Employment Claims
Employment law cases involve high stakes. Your income, benefits, and professional reputation may be on the line. If your lawyer mishandles your case, the damage can be significant. Examples include:
- Severance negotiations: Failing to secure fair terms or overlooking restrictive clauses.
- Wrongful termination: Missing the deadline to file with the EEOC or Connecticut Commission on Human Rights and Opportunities (CHRO).
- Discrimination or harassment claims: Not presenting key evidence or mishandling procedural steps.
- Wage and hour disputes: Failing to calculate damages properly or advising you to accept an unfair settlement.
An attorney’s error in these areas may cause you to lose valuable compensation or unintentionally waive your rights.
What To Do If You Suspect Malpractice
If you believe your lawyer harmed your disability or employment case, act quickly. Consider:
- Gathering documentation: Keep copies of filings, correspondence, and contracts.
- Reviewing missed deadlines: Note whether appeal or filing dates were overlooked.
- Consulting another attorney: A malpractice lawyer can evaluate whether your case meets the legal standard for malpractice.
- Taking prompt action: Connecticut imposes strict time limits on malpractice claims.
How Stanfield Bechtel Law Can Help
At Stanfield Bechtel Law, we know how much is at stake when legal malpractice undermines your disability or employment rights. Our attorneys will review your case, explain your options, and pursue accountability against negligent lawyers. We are committed to helping you recover from the setbacks caused by poor representation.
Protecting Your Disability and Employment Rights
Legal malpractice in disability and employment cases can put your financial stability, health, and career at risk. You do not have to face the consequences alone. If you suspect that your lawyer mishandled your disability benefits claim or your employment matter, contact Stanfield Bechtel Law today. We will fight to protect your rights and help you move forward with confidence.
FAQs About Legal Malpractice in Disability and Employment Cases
Can I sue my lawyer if they mishandled my disability claim?
Yes. If your attorney’s mistakes, such as missing deadlines, failing to submit medical records, or giving poor advice, caused your SSDI or long-term disability claim to be denied, you may have grounds for a malpractice lawsuit.
What kinds of employment cases are most affected by malpractice?
Employment cases where timing and contracts matter most, such as severance negotiations, wrongful termination claims, discrimination or harassment complaints, and wage disputes, can be especially vulnerable if your lawyer makes errors.
How long do I have to bring a malpractice claim in Connecticut?
In most cases, you must file a malpractice claim within three years of the attorney’s negligent act or omission. Because deadlines are strict, it’s best to consult another attorney as soon as you suspect malpractice.