At Tomlinson Bomsztyk Russ, our Seattle litigation attorneys bring decades of trial experience, relentless advocacy, and trusted client relationships built to last. Unfortunately, not all legal representation delivers in the same way. If you’re feeling uneasy, here are ten warning signs that your lawyer may not be giving you the dedicated advocacy you deserve.
1. Advice That Suddenly Shifts Without Cause
In a high-stakes legal matter, advice should evolve only when facts change or legal strategy demands it. If your lawyer reverses course without explanation, it may signal a lack of strategy or confidence in the case.
2. Vague or Confusing Billing
At TBR Law, billing transparency reflects meaningful, strategic work. If your invoices are unclear or don’t align with case progress, it may indicate poor case management, or worse, stagnation.
3. More Concern for the Other Side Than for You
A top litigation law firm should focus on you, your objectives, your case, your outcome. If your lawyer seems overly cautious about how the other side might react, rather than advocating for your interests, that’s a significant red flag.
4. Passive Advocacy
Real advocacy means actively seizing every legal opportunity, from negotiations to trial. If your lawyer is passive and fails to push hard for your interests, they’re not standing up for you the way TBR’s attorneys would.
5. Poor Communication
Your legal team should keep you in the loop. At TBR Law, responsiveness and direct access to partners are hallmarks of our approach. If you’re constantly chasing updates, it may be time to reconsider your counsel.
6. Dodging Clear Answers
Your lawyer should demystify your case, not cloud it with vague assurances. If you're left wondering about your options or status, your representation may not be serving you effectively.
7. Lack of Progress or Clear Next Steps
Even challenging cases should show momentum. If months pass without legal filings, responses, or direction, it may be because your lawyer isn’t pushing things forward.
8. No Strategy, Only Reaction
TBR litigators are known for proactive, deliberate approaches, whether in catastrophic injury cases, contract disputes, or appellate matters.. If your attorney seems always caught off guard, your case may be drifting.
9. Dismissing Your Input
At TBR, we build lasting partnerships by investing in understanding your needs every step of the way. If your concerns feel minimized or unwelcome, that trust is breaking down.
10. Stress Caused by Your Lawyer
Legal conflicts are inherently stressful. But working with a law firm should ease that burden, not add to it. If your lawyer only adds to the anxiety, your representation may not be as supportive as it should be.
If these warning signs sound familiar, it could be time to consider a consultation with a law firm built around skilled litigation, proactive strategy, and long-term client trust. At Tomlinson Bomsztyk Russ, we are prepared to advocate fiercely, even in high-stakes, complex cases.
Ready to take the next step? Contact us today for a strategic consultation and discover how strong, experienced advocacy can make all the difference.