Darren M. Van Puymbrouck

I would be extremely cautious with this attorney. Do not sign anything, authorize anything, or give him control over any decision without independent review. The most disturbing part is this: you may hire him believing he is there to protect you, only to discover that you need another attorney to ...protect you **from him**. In my experience, he does not defend the client—he defends his own interests. If you question him, disagree with him, or refuse to follow his directions, the pressure can turn toward you. An attorney should advise you, not act as though he owns your case, your settlement, or your decisions. Do not give him a power of attorney—even a “limited” one—without independent legal review. Require that you are copied on communications with opposing counsel. Ask for copies of everything sent or received on your behalf. Put every instruction, objection, and authorization in writing. The most dangerous attorney is not always the one sitting across the table. Sometimes it is the one sitting next to you while you still believe he is on your side. Do not walk away. **Run.**