How To File a Claim of Negligence Against an Old Divorce Attorney

The standard for negligence claims against attorneys in Wisconsin is seen in Helmbrecht v. St. Paul Ins. Co, 122 Wis.2d 94, 362 N.W.2d 118 (1985). It was established that in an action for negligence against an attorney, the client has the burden of proving the existence of the relation of attorney and client, the acts constituting the alleged negligence, that the negligence was the proximate cause of the injury, and the fact and extent of the alleged injury. 

The last element mentioned often involves the burden of showing that, but for the negligence of the attorney, the client would have been successful in the prosecution or defense of an action. For individuals navigating family law matters, understanding the legal steps for divorce can also help clarify how attorneys guide clients through filings, court procedures, and negotiations that ultimately shape the outcome of a case.