Caroline Zinns

Caroline Zinns

I regret that this client was so dissatisfied and would have made every effort to rectify had I been made aware and allowed the opportunity. However, I represent injured individual workers. Thus, the reference to "us" and "our" is significant for a number of reasons worthy of mention. Typically, clients are advised of their privilege of confidentiality. Some clients nonetheless waive their right, against the very legal advice they voluntarily solicited in their own best interest, and insist that a third party be privy to such privileged discussions. Moreover, they demand that I not only honor my duty to them as client but, as well to said third party. Without regard to other clients entitled to my time, energy and resources, they expect me to double my efforts, repeat matters discussed, etc. to the non-client instead. To expect such professional courtesies be extended for years is unreasonable, excessive and takes advantage of the contingent fee arrangement where clients are not billed for time spent on their case. This further highlights a glaring contradiction since this client was dissatisfied after only six months. Despite the options of either assuming responsibility for their own case, or seeking alternate representation, they did neither and instead intentionally and voluntarily maintained the relationship for years through resolution they authorized only to complain of the outcome. They fail to acknowledge the checks and balances since the settlement was also approved by the court who does so only if deemed adequate based upon medical evidence. Medical evidence takes time, the amount of which is largely dependent upon the individual, their health prior to and since injury as well as how they respond towards medical treatment provided. Cases are ripe for settlement only after one is released from medical care, assuming they do not object to final opinions necessitating an independent medical evaluation. Delays are inherent to the workers' compensation system and cannot be avoided despite best efforts. Moreover, rushing to a premature settlement would have indicated a lack of integrity and due care for the client and that was not the case here. It is important that clients' expectations be reasonable to experience satisfaction within the limitations of the workers' compensation system or, change the processes they complain of through proper legislative channels. Alas, clients never consider such matters until they are already in the process.