what can you argue if a judge does not allow you to retain an attorney

by Mollie Beatty 6 min read

How to deal with a difficult judge as a lawyer?

Mar 06, 2020 · If the Social Security disability judge denies your case and sends you a decision marked “unfavorable” you will feel angry, offended and frustrated. After all, disability cases can take two to three years from the date of your application to the date you receive the denial. YouTube. Social Security Disability videos. 53.8K subscribers.

Can a judge take over a case from a lawyer?

Jan 16, 2018 · Most judges have no problem with that. But I don’t hesitate to argue with a judge frequently. My client is paying me to advocate for them, so I do it. [Judges] rarely take it personally. Luckily ...

Does your lawyer listen to what the judges say?

When the Judge Is Wrong. By Florence M. Johnson. "There is no such thing as the judge being wrong." This proclamation was uttered to me by—you guessed it—a judge. It's a judge's job to be right, and ultimately they wear the robes, not you. However, every litigator will eventually encounter a jurist who is undeniably flat-out wrong on an issue.

How do you argue with a judge?

Jun 09, 2020 · 1. An order for child support is nothing but a promise on a piece of paper. Regardless of what you hear about fathers going to jail for non-payment, that rarely happens. When it comes to enforcing that child support order …

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Can judges be biased?

Courts have explained that bias is a favorable or unfavorable opinion that is inappropriate because it is not deserved, rests upon knowledge that the judge should not possess, or because it is excessive.

What ethical issues do judges face?

Common complaints of ethical misconduct include improper demeanour; failure to properly disqualify when the judge has a conflict of interest; engaging in ex parte communication and failure to execute their judicial duties in a timely fashion. Behaviour outside of the courtroom can also be at issue.

What is a conflict of interest law?

conflict of interest. n. a situation in which a person has a duty to more than one person or organization, but cannot do justice to the actual or potentially adverse interests of both parties.

Can Judges do whatever they want?

Because judges have no accountability, they can do whatever they please. Judges are the only public officials with no accountability, and they want to keep it that way. The fact that we allow judges to indulge their whims is our collective shame.May 21, 2020

What should be done when a judge behaves unethically and unprofessionally?

File a Grievance if the Judge Behaves Unethically Judges who behave rudely or who tilt decisions based on their personal interests or biases may be subject to professional discipline. A party may file a formal grievance against state or federal judges.Nov 4, 2018

Can judges violate constitutional rights?

Clothed with the power of the state and authorized to pass judgment on the most basic aspects of everyday life, a judge can deprive citizens of liberty and property in complete disregard of the Constitution.

What are the 4 types of conflict of interest?

Types of conflict of interest and dutyActual conflict of interest: ... Potential conflict of interest: ... Perceived conflict of interest: ... Conflict of duty: ... Direct interests: ... Indirect interests: ... Financial interests: ... Non-financial interests:Jul 19, 2016

What are some examples of conflicts of interest?

Some types of conflicts of interest include:Nepotism. ... Self-dealing. ... Gift issuance. ... Insider trading. ... Review the employee handbook. ... Attend business ethics training. ... Report conflicts of interest. ... Disclose.Apr 1, 2021

What are the three types of conflicts of interest?

Three Common Types of Conflicts of InterestNepotism. Nepotism happens when an individual in charge of a hiring process chooses to award a job offer to someone in their own family or with whom they have a personal relationship. ... Self-Dealing. ... Business Relationships.

What do judges base their decisions on?

As stated, Formalists recite that judicial decisions are the products of two fixed elements: the facts and the rule of law. A judge's decision is the result of the addition of these two elements; it is, thus, often predictable.

Can judges be corrupt?

Corruption in the judiciary includes any inappropriate influence on the impartiality of judicial proceedings and judgements and can extend to the bribing of judges for favourable decisions, or no decision at all.May 23, 2007

Are judges ethical?

Deference to the judgments and rulings of courts depends on public confidence in the integrity and independence of judges. The integrity and independence of judges depend in turn on their acting without fear or favor. Although judges should be independent, they must comply with the law and should comply with this Code.

What is permission to appeal?

(1) To request permission to appeal when an appeal is within the court of appeals' discretion, a party must file a petition for permission to appeal. The petition must be filed with the circuit clerk with proof of service on all other parties to the district-court action.

What is interlocutory appeal?

Interlocutory appeal is a tool that circumvents waiting for the final decision of the district court, instead allowing direct appeal to the appellate court while the action is pending. This practice point illustrates the operation of Federal Rules of Appellate Procedure 5.0, below. Rule 5. Appeal by Permission.

How will the error affect the case outcome?

How will the error affect the case's outcome? If a ruling is in doubt, it's best to err on the side of caution: assume every ruling will have an impact on every aspect of the case, from discovery boundaries to use of expert witnesses or the manner in which evidence will be presented at trial.

What to do if you question a ruling in court?

If you question a ruling against you within court, you may ask the court's permission to brief any issue before a ruling is handed down.

How many pages are required for a court order?

Except by the court's permission, a paper must not exceed 20 pages, exclusive of the disclosure statement, the proof of service, and the accompanying documents required by Rule 5 (b) (1) (E).

Can a judge's misunderstanding be remedied?

Unfortunately, there are times when a judge's misunderstanding or misapplication of the law is material but the issue cannot be remedied via a later appeal. In these circumstances, the rules provide for an interlocutory appeal. Interlocutory appeal is a tool that circumvents waiting for the final decision of the district court, ...

What are the rules of divorce?

Divorce is a civil action, and every state has rules of civil procedure. What you don’t hear about but, have probably fallen victim to, are the unwritten family court rules. These “unwritten rules,” are the rules that define how judges and lawyers conduct themselves with each other. These unwritten rules, the rules that define what goes on ...

What are the unwritten rules of family court?

3 Unwritten Family Court Rules: 1. Lawyers and judges cover for each other. Most judges and lawyers will not report each other for misconduct or violations of judicial ethics. Judges especially can get away with bad behavior because lawyers don’t want to get on a judge’s bad side. Lawyers know they will go before that judge again ...

Why are judicial orders not enforced?

Judges have the power to enforce awards but are typically reluctant to force men to honor their support obligations to their families because, under the law, men who don’t’ comply would have to be jailed, and judges are often highly reluctant to jail a deadbeat dad.”

What to do if you can't come to an agreement with your spouse?

If you find yourself unable to come to an agreement with your spouse and you do have to schedule a court date be wary of these hallway settlements. You hire a lawyer to protect your interests but you have to put pro-active energy into making sure those interests are truly protected. 3. Judges don’t enforce court orders.

What to do if you have a court date scheduled?

If you have a court date scheduled and wish to go before a judge for a decision, stand your ground. There is no guarantee you will get a better settlement from the judge but, you will at least know you were in control of how your divorce played out. 3.

Do judges and lawyers know each other?

Most judges and lawyers are friends outside the courtroom, especially if you live in a small community. Your lawyer knows the judge, his lawyer knows the judge and it is difficult for a judge to remain impartial if he is better buddies with one or the other of the lawyers.

Do judges enforce awards?

Judges have the power to enforce awards but are typically reluctant to force men to honor their support obligations to their families because, under the law, men who don’t’ comply would have to be jailed, and judges are often highly reluctant to jail a deadbeat dad.”.

What can the Commission do?

The Commission can issue confidential advisory letters, private admonishments, public admonishments and public censures. In the most serious cases, the Commission can order that a judge be removed or retired from office, bar a former judge from receiving judicial appointments or assignments, or find that a court.

How long does it take to get a final action review from a court commissioner?

If you want the Commission to review the local court’s final action on your complaint against a court commissioner or referee, you must file a written request with the Commission within 30 days after the date the notice of the local court’s action on the matter was mailed.

Why do bad judges go on for years?

Many bad judges go on for years because the public fails to complain thinking there will be retaliation.

Where is the oath of office?

The “oath of office” is on file at the clerk of the court records office and is open for public inspection. If you discover the judge does not have this document on file, you can get this judge removed from office and he might be subject to re-paying back his salary.

Can an investigator contact you for additional information?

If there are other similiar complaints an investigator may contact you for additional information if needed. If you want to positively make sure that your complaint is acted upon. You can go further to investigate a judge and request a copy of his “oath of office.”.

Can a judge be investigated for personal dissatisfaction?

Allegations stemming from a judge’s rulings or exercise of discretion ordinarily do not provide a basis for Commission action, and personal dissatisfaction with a legal ruling is not grounds for investigation of a judge.

Can a judge be voided if he doesn't sign the oath of office?

In many cases this form is not properly filed or missing. If it is, the judge is not sworn and judgments can be voided. Some judges without scrup les will not sign the “oath of office” as a “get out of jail card” if they are caught doing something illegal or unethical down the road.

How to prepare for court?

Prepare Your Client for Court. Help your client understand that you have no control on which judge will be appointed to preside over any hearings or the trial. Depending on the type of case, there may be different judges during different phases of the case. In some cases, a single judge is assigned throughout the case.

Why do you bring your client to court?

Bring Your Client to Court. Although many courtroom appearances and hearings can take place without your client’s presence , there are three main reasons to bring your client to court. First, you put a human face to the case instead of it being just another number on the docket.

How to address a judge without argument?

If the client has to speak to the judge, make sure they understand to stand up, address the judge as “sir” or “m’am,” and to directly answer the judge’s questions without argument. In other words, make sure that your clients understand that they aren’t in court to argue their case; that’s your job.

What to do if a judge cuts you off?

If the judge seems determined to cut you off, politely ask for an opportunity to be heard. Rarely will a judge deny you this opportunity, so stay calm and present your case.

What happens if you lose your cool in court?

If you lose your cool in the courtroom, and the judge loses whatever respect he or she may have for you, then you will have set a negative tone for all future appearances in this judge’s courtroom. In the end, you can’t control how a judge behaves; you can only control yourself by being professional and courteous.

What happens if you overlook researching your judge's background?

If you overlook researching your judge’s personal and professional background, then you’re making a mistake that may negatively impact the outcome of your case.

Can a judge make up their mind?

Although being a judge is all about making decisions, some judges can’t seem to make up their minds. Also, this type of judge may take an opportunity to “kick-the-can” to another judge by holding off on a decision. In this scenario, your best bet is to offer the judge a clear, uncomplicated solution to the problem.

What does it mean when an attorney is not available within 72 hours?

Truth: If you are unable to obtain an initial appointment with an attorney within 72-hours, it probably means that the attorney is already overloaded with work. Unfortunately, it is the business model for many attorneys to render mediocre legal services for many clients, rather than to provide first rate legal services for a few clients.

What is the myth about an attorney?

Myth: An attorney who has an impressive office address and a well-decorated office must be successful and competent. Truth: An attorney with a large monthly overhead may have a dysfunctional incentive to take on more cases than he or she can prudently manage and/or charge excessive hourly rates.

What does it mean when an attorney has passed the bar exam?

Myth: The fact that an attorney has passed the state bar examination means that he is qualified to practice law. Truth: An attorney only becomes competent in a particular area as a result of years of practice and experience.

Why is most of the work at large law firms not performed by the named partners?

The result is that most of the work at large law firms is not performed by the named partners, because their primary responsibilities are meeting with prospective clients and mentoring junior attorneys. Myth: An attorney who has an impressive office address and a well-decorated office must be successful and competent.

How to determine an attorney's competency?

Truth: You can determine an attorney’s competency in a particular field by asking for references and verifying that the attorney has successfully handled similar legal matters. Myth: An optimal outcome can be achieved by retaining a contentious attorney.

Do attorneys charge contingency fees?

Myth: All attorneys charge a one-third contingency fee in personal injury cases. Truth: The contingency fee charged by an attorney in a personal injury case is negotiable. For example, an attorney should voluntarily reduce his contingency fee when representing 2 or more clients that were injured in the same accident.

Do all attorneys carry malpractice insurance?

Myth: All attorneys carry legal malpractice insurance. Truth: There is no requirement in Maryland for any attorney to purchase malpractice insurance. It is always proper for a client to request that the attorney provide proof of insurance. Myth: A client cannot fire his or her attorney.

Can a judge postpone finding an attorney?

A judge may or may not do so. A person who wishes to have more time to find an attorney should ask the judge for a postponement for the purpose of finding an attorney. You should contact a criminal defense attorney immediately.

Do you have to get a lawyer on the first trial date?

As a general rule, on the first trial date, the Judge will give you more time to get a lawyer. Remember, it is not the fine that is most important, but the fact that a conviction will remain on your record the rest of your life.

What happens if an appellate case is one sided?

If the issues were totally one-sided, the loser would not take the appeal, or would settle long before oral argument. Many inexperienced appellate lawyers, however, hear a question on their weak point and immediately try to avoid answering it—like a candidate at a political debate.

What is the importance of oral argument?

An important part of preparation for oral argument is identifying those tough questions and developing persuasive answers to them. A confident, prepared attorney is far more likely to persuade a doubtful judge than an advocate who tries to duck the questions.

What does it mean to come to court without knowing the record?

To come to court without complete knowledge of the record is to risk insult to the court —and disaster to the client. There is nothing revolutionary about this list. Other appellate attorneys and judges could add more items (such as do not refer to a judge by the wrong name—or the wrong gender).

What do mothers and grade school teachers say is true?

This rule, of more than politeness, did not become passé upon graduation from law school. Yet the problem persists, and not just in appellate courts. Trial judges hate when attorneys interrupt them as well.

What happens if an attorney does not try the case?

That said, an attorney who did not try the case has a special responsibility to be fully conversant with the record.

Can an attorney write an oral argument in an appellate court?

The attorney may have some experience writing briefs on motions to dismiss or summary judgment, which at least bears some resemblance to appellate briefing requirements. But appellate oral argument is unlike anything they face at the trial level.

Is there a choir in appellate court?

There is a real “preaching to the choir” aspect to much of the professional education about appellate advocacy. The judges are often talking not to trial lawyers but rather to attorneys who regularly appear in appellate courts: those who claim to be—or aspire to be—appellate “specialists.”.

What is the agency responsible for licensing and disciplining lawyers?

Every state has an agency responsible for licensing and disciplining lawyers. In most states, it's the bar association; in others, the state supreme court. The agency is most likely to take action if your lawyer has failed to pay you money that you won in a settlement or lawsuit, made some egregious error such as failing to show up in court, didn't do legal work you paid for, committed a crime, or has a drug or alcohol abuse problem.

What to do if your lawyer doesn't work?

If that doesn't work, as a last resort you may need to sue your lawyer in small claims court, asking the court for money to compensate you for what you've spent on redoing work in the file or trying to get the file.

What to do if you lost money because of a lawyer?

If you lost money because of the way your lawyer handled your case, consider suing for malpractice. Know, however, that it is not an easy task. You must prove two things:

What is the defense of a lawyer who is sued for malpractice?

A common defense raised by attorneys sued for malpractice is that the client waited too long to sue. And because this area of the law can be surprisingly complicated and confusing, there's often plenty of room for argument. Legal malpractice cases are expensive to pursue, so do some investigating before you dive in.

What to do if your lawyer is unresponsive?

If the lawyer is unresponsive and the matter involves a lawsuit, go to the courthouse and look at your case file, which contains all the papers that have actually been filed with the court. If you've hired a new lawyer, ask her for help in getting your file. Also, ask your state bar association for assistance.

What to do if you can't find out what has been done?

If you can't find out what has (and has not) been done, you need to get hold of your file. You can read it in your lawyer's office or ask your lawyer to send you copies of everything -- all correspondence and everything filed with the court or recorded with a government agency.

What happens if a lawyer doesn't return phone calls?

A lawyer who doesn't return phone calls or communicate with you for an extended period of time may be guilty of abandoning you -- a violation of attorneys' ethical obligations. But that's for a bar association to determine (if you register a complaint), and it won't do you much good in the short term.

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