Q: A disgruntled ex-client is posting untruthful reviews about me suggesting legal malpractice. What should I do?
A:
This is an ethical and relational minefield. Any substantive or defensive response is likely to inflame the situation and harden his attitude, as it effectively encourages him to throw another log on the fire. Think of it this way -- the fire that's tended burns the hottest, and you want this fire to go out.
I suggest responding along these lines: "I regret that (ex-client) found our attorney-client relationship unsatisfactory. This will be the only response I make to his criticism since my understanding of the rules governing the conduct of lawyers in the State of Illinois limits my ability to respond."
Post this in response to each critical review. At some point he'll weary of the game. If he replies to your response by saying he waives any right of confidentiality he has, whatever you do don't bite. Re-post the same reply, ad infinitum.
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