Why Isn’t My Attorney Responding? Understanding Communication Gaps and What You Can Do

One of the most important elements in any attorney-client relationship is communication. It helps build trust, ensures you stay informed, and allows your case to move forward smoothly. So it’s understandable that when your attorney seems unresponsive, it can be frustrating—or even worrisome.

According to Rule 1.4 of the American Bar Association’s Model Rules of Professional Conduct, attorneys are required to "promptly comply with reasonable requests for information." However, what qualifies as “prompt” or “reasonable” can vary depending on the case and its stage. If you’re not hearing back from your attorney as often as you’d like, there may be a simple explanation. Below are some of the most common reasons for limited communication—and what you can do about it.

1. There May Simply Be No Updates Yet

Many personal injury and civil cases move slowly, especially in the beginning. Attorneys are often waiting on medical records, insurance communications, or court schedules before they can provide meaningful updates. No news is often just that—no new developments yet.

2. Your Case Doesn't Have a Looming Deadline

Attorneys are trained to prioritize based on urgency. If your case doesn’t have an upcoming court date or deadline, it may not be in the active phase at the moment. If you're concerned, ask your attorney for a general timeline so you’ll know what to expect and when.

3. You May Not Be the Legal Client

Sometimes the person involved in the case (such as an injured party) is not the official client on the file. If you didn’t sign the representation agreement, your attorney may not be authorized to disclose sensitive details to you. If you’re unsure of your role, ask for clarification.

4. Your Attorney Is Handling Other Cases

Law firms manage many cases simultaneously. While this doesn’t excuse long periods of silence, it’s not unusual for attorneys to direct their attention to cases with upcoming hearings, deadlines, or emergencies. You’re not being forgotten—your turn is coming.

5. There May Have Been a Setback

If a mistake or delay has occurred in your case, your attorney might be working behind the scenes to resolve it before reaching out. That said, it’s reasonable to expect transparency. If something feels off, it’s okay to ask for a clear update.

6. You May Be Missing Key Instructions

Attorneys often provide guidance or request information during a case. If instructions haven’t been followed or key documents are missing, your attorney may not be able to move forward. Be sure to check if any action is needed on your part.

Our Communication Policy at Sims & Purzer

At Sims & Purzer, we value transparency and proactive communication. We want you to feel supported and informed throughout your case. While we do our best to respond promptly, we also have policies in place to ensure that each case—including yours—gets the dedicated attention it deserves.

Here’s what you should know about how we handle communication:

• Unscheduled phone calls to our cell phones will not be answered unless previously arranged. Kindly use text or email for all communications unless it's an emergency. This ensures our attorneys can work on several cases without interruption and return messages thoughtfully and thoroughly.

  
  

• If your matter is urgent or time-sensitive, we will do our best to respond quickly. Otherwise, rest assured that your case is being actively monitored and that the attorneys will reach out when they are able.

  
  

• If you have a question or concern, please text or email it to us. We’ll make sure it’s relayed to the attorney as soon as possible.

  
  

• Need to talk by phone? No problem! Let us know your availability, and we’ll schedule a call at a time that works for both you and your attorney.

Still Concerned?

Let Us Help You Stay Informed and Supported

At Sims & Purzer, Attorneys at Law, PLLC we believe that clear communication builds strong legal partnerships. Our team works hard to ensure every client feels heard, respected, and confident about the progress of their case. If you’re looking for legal representation that balances professional focus with personalized care, we’re here for you.

Whether you’re just getting started with a claim or have concerns about your current case, contact us today to learn how we can help. Let’s work together to move your case forward—intentionally, efficiently, and with your goals in mind.