Legal Malpractice

What is Legal Malpractice?

A civil action that charges that the lawyer has fallen below the standards of performance that would be required of a lawyer in good standing under similar circumstances. A lawsuit against the lawyer generally requires sufficient proof of (1) negligence, or falling below the required standard of care; (2) causation between the negligence and the harm claimed; and (3) damages.

Further Reading

For more detailed information, see our related Ethics terms:

• Malpractice
• Notice of Withdrawal
• Fiduciary Duty

Reviewed by

Stephanie Bagnall

Licensed Attorney and Legal Researcher

Stephanie Bagnall is a Georgia-licensed attorney and legal researcher with experience in accessibility law, compliance, employment law, and legal writing. She helps develop and review BarPrepHero's Legal Terms content for clarity, accuracy, and usefulness to bar exam students.

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