Benjamin Taylor Ybarra

Benjamin Ybarra

Your “bad gut feeling” was probably accurate. We were not a good personality fit, and in retrospect, both of us would have been better served if you had trusted it. I did review the materials you provided and researched the legal issues before the consultation. The questions I asked were intended to determine whether certain necessary steps had actually been taken, not because I had failed to read what you sent. The consultation became strained when my legal assessment did not align with the conclusions you had already reached. Being heard is not the same thing as being agreed with. My role is to provide an independent assessment, including conclusions a client may not want to hear. As the conversation became more defensive and confrontational, my demeanor became more reserved. You experienced that as coldness. I understand the distinction may not have been apparent from your perspective. I do agree with one point: clients should find an attorney whose communication style works for them. Mine is direct, analytical, and focused on the facts and law. That approach will not be the right fit for everyone.