In this article, we’ll explore why some lawyers reject cases, what a rejection really means, and what you can do next if it happens to you.
Common Reasons Cases Get Rejected
It’s not unusual for clients to approach multiple lawyers before finding the right one. While some law firms clearly explain why they’re unable to take a case, others may provide less specific responses. Here are some of the most common reasons cases are rejected:
- Some lawyers may lack experience with your specific type of case. Law is a broad field, and within areas like personal injury, there are distinct specialties. For example, some personal injury attorneys focus on medical malpractice, while others handle slip-and-fall cases. And that’s just within one practice area. Because of this, it’s crucial to choose a law firm with attorneys who specialize in cases like yours.
- Financial feasibility plays a role in case selection. Attorneys assess multiple factors before taking on a case, including whether pursuing it makes financial sense. Even if your case has legal merit, litigation can be costly, and lawyers must determine whether the potential outcome justifies the expenses involved.
- The statute of limitations may have expired—or is about to. If you plan to sue a person or entity, you must do so within a legally defined timeframe known as the statute of limitations. This timeframe varies depending on the case type, jurisdiction, and severity of the offense. If the deadline passes, you forfeit your right to sue, except in rare circumstances. Even if the deadline hasn’t passed yet, an attorney may still decline your case if there isn’t enough time to build a strong legal argument.
- Not all law firms have the resources to handle your case. Some firms lack the expertise or capacity to take on complex or large-scale litigation. For example, cases involving product defects often require going up against major corporations, which demands significant legal resources. If a firm doesn’t have the experience or infrastructure to handle such litigation, they may be unable to take your case.
What Should You do if Your Case Has Been Rejected?
These are just a few common reasons cases get rejected, and your next steps will depend on your specific situation.
Don’t get discouraged
Being turned down by a law firm doesn’t mean your case is unwinnable. Finding the right attorney is like searching for any other professional service—you may need to explore multiple options before finding the best fit. Even if you’ve been rejected more than once, keep looking for a firm that has the right expertise and resources for your case.
Understand Why Your Case Was Rejected
The key to finding the right lawyer is understanding your case’s specific needs. Many law firms that decline cases will explain why, and some may even refer you to an attorney better suited for your situation. If a firm provides only a vague response, don’t hesitate to ask questions. Gathering as much information as possible will help you get your case into the right hands.
Check for Statute of Limitations Exceptions
If your case was rejected due to time constraints, you may still have options. Every state has exceptions that can extend the statute of limitations. In Florida, for example, exceptions apply in cases involving:
- Minors – If the plaintiff was under 18 at the time of the incident.
- Incapacitation – If the plaintiff was mentally or physically unable to understand their legal rights.
- Fraudulent Concealment – If the defendant hid key information related to the claim.
- The Discovery Rule – If the plaintiff discovered their injury or loss at a later date than when the wrongful act occurred.
Understanding these exceptions could help to keep your case alive.
Kelley | Uustal Takes Impossible Cases Others Won’t
There are many reasons why law firms may turn down a case, but that doesn’t mean you’re out of options. If your case has been rejected, it’s important to find a firm with the right experience and resources to handle your specific legal needs.
If your case was turned down because it’s complex or large-scale, consider reaching out to Kelley | Uustal at 888.522.1154. We are not your typical personal injury law firm. Our attorneys specialize in high-stakes litigation involving catastrophic injuries and wrongful death caused by defective products and represents plaintiffs in business disputes, class actions, civil rights and defamation cases. We are not afraid to take on major corporations, expose corporate negligence, and fight for the justice our clients deserve.
At Kelley | Uustal, we take on cases others consider unwinnable—securing victories that have transformed lives, raised industry standards, and reshaped the legal field. If other firms have declined your case due to a lack of resources or expertise, bring it to us. We’ll do everything we can to pursue justice on your behalf. And if we’re not the right fit, we’ll help connect you with an attorney who is.
