When an Attorney Declines Your Case — What It Really Means
It can be disheartening to reach out for legal help and hear that a lawyer won’t take your case. In Arizona, this happens more often than most people realize—and it doesn’t always mean you don’t have a valid legal claim.
At Rideout Law Group, with offices in Scottsdale and Lake Havasu City, we’ve helped many clients who were initially turned away by other attorneys. Knowing why your case was declined can help you move forward with confidence and find the representation you need.
Common Reasons an Attorney May Decline a Case
- Insufficient Evidence or Documentation
If you’re missing police reports, medical records, or signed contracts, your case may seem too weak to pursue. Gathering stronger documentation can help you re-approach a firm with a better chance of acceptance.
- Statute of Limitations Has Expired
Arizona law sets strict time limits on filing claims. For example, most personal injury lawsuits must be filed within two years of the incident. If time has run out, lawyers may be legally unable to help.
- Conflict of Interest
Lawyers cannot ethically represent you if they already represent someone on the opposing side of your case. These conflicts are non-negotiable and often require you to find independent counsel.
- Outside Their Legal Focus
A family law attorney may not be equipped to handle a criminal case, and vice versa. Matching your case to the right type of attorney—like our criminal defense, family law, or civil litigation teams—can make all the difference.
- Costs Outweigh Recovery
For contingency-fee cases (like personal injury or slip-and-falls), an attorney might determine that your potential compensation doesn’t justify the case expenses. In such instances, small claims court may be a better option.
What to Do Next If an Attorney Won’t Take Your Case
🧩 Ask for Feedback
Politely request the reason your case was declined. Honest feedback helps you understand whether the issue is legal, evidentiary, or logistical.
📑 Strengthen Your Evidence
Gather all relevant paperwork: emails, text messages, photos, videos, or official records. Stronger documentation may change a firm’s decision.
👩⚖️ Seek a Second Opinion
Different attorneys have different thresholds for taking cases. Reach out to another law firm—especially one with experience in your specific legal area.
🔄 Consider Alternative Paths
You may still have options, including:
- Filing in Arizona small claims court (for disputes under $3,500)
- Contacting legal aid organizations
- Exploring mediation or arbitration
- Filing administrative complaints if a government agency is involved
How Rideout Law Group Can Help
At Rideout Law Group, we understand how discouraging it can be to feel like no one will take your case. Our attorneys have extensive experience across a wide range of legal issues, including:
- Criminal Defense (DUI, drug charges, violent crimes)
- Juvenile Law
- Family Law & Divorce
- Protective Orders
- Expungements
- Civil Litigation
- Personal Injury & Accident Claims
Even if we can’t represent you directly, we’ll give you honest feedback and help guide you toward the next best steps.
Contact Rideout Law Group Today
Don’t let one rejection stop you from seeking justice. Let our experienced team in Scottsdale or Lake Havasu City review your case.
📍 Scottsdale Office
11111 N Scottsdale Rd, Suite 225, Scottsdale, AZ 85254
📞 (480) 584-3328
📍 Lake Havasu City Office
2800 Sweetwater Ave, Suite A104, Lake Havasu City, AZ 86406
📞 (928) 854-8181
🔗 Contact Us Online for a Free Case Review
This blog post is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Reading this content does not create an attorney-client relationship. For legal guidance specific to your situation, please contact a licensed attorney at Rideout Law Group.