The Top Complaints Clients Have About Lawyers in Arkansas
Poor communication is the #1 complaint about lawyers in Arkansas. Learn what to watch for, how to address it, and how to hire better counsel.
CRIMINAL DEFENSE
Why Communication Matters in Criminal Defense
In Arkansas criminal cases, fast response and transparency from your attorney are critical. If your lawyer disappears for days or weeks at a time, it can lead to:
Missed court deadlines
Lost plea deal windows
Inadequate preparation for trial
Rising anxiety and mistrust from the client
Even more, it may violate Rule 1.4 of the Arkansas Rules of Professional Conduct, which requires lawyers to “keep the client reasonably informed” and respond promptly to requests.
Other Common Complaints About Lawyers in Arkansas
Besides poor communication, other common grievances include:
Negligence or incompetence in preparing a case
Conflicts of interest not disclosed to the client
Excessive or unclear fees
Dishonesty or lack of transparency
Failure to follow client instructions
But time and again, the core complaint comes down to one thing: clients can’t get their lawyer to talk to them.
How to Prevent This Problem
The best time to address communication issues is before hiring a criminal defense lawyer. During your initial consultation, ask:
How fast do you return calls or texts?
Will I get your direct number or speak only to staff?
Can I reach you after hours in an emergency?
If you’re already facing these issues mid-case, you may need to switch lawyers. Read our guide on how to choose a criminal defense lawyer in Arkansas to avoid falling into the same trap again.
The Power of a Responsive Team
At Ludwig Law, we prep every case like it’s going to trial. We also work closely with powerhouse firms like Warden Law Firm, known for their courtroom tenacity and no-BS communication. When a client needs both finesse and firepower, a Ludwig and Warden partnership is the best option. Together, we give clients the full spectrum of criminal defense in Arkansas—with zero guesswork or silence.
If you’ve ever hired a lawyer and felt ignored, you’re not alone. According to a report done by the Arkansas Supreme Court’s Committe of Professional Conduct and similar national data, one of the most common rule violations had to do with client communication.
What that looks like specifically:
Failing to return calls or emails
Not providing case updates
Leaving clients in the dark before court dates
Ignoring time-sensitive questions
This isn’t just bad service—it’s a problem that can affect your case outcome.
Our criminal defense attorneys at Ludwig Law Firm take pride in listening well, responding quickly, and making sure you always know where your case stands. Because when you're under stress, silence from your lawyer is unacceptable.


Choose a Lawyer Who Calls You Back
If you're tired of silence and need responsive, capable representation, call 501-838-4043 or visit ludwiglawfirm.com. We’re here—and we answer.
📞 Call Ludwig Law Firm today at 501-838-4043
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Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for general informational purposes only and is not intended as legal advice. Reading this blog or interacting with Ludwig Law Firm through this content does not create an attorney-client relationship. Every legal case is different, and you should not act or rely on any information in this blog without first consulting with a licensed attorney about your specific situation. For legal guidance tailored to your needs, please contact Ludwig Law Firm directly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I fire my lawyer for not returning my calls?
A: Yes. If your lawyer isn’t meeting basic communication standards, you’re entitled to hire someone else—especially in criminal matters.
Q: Is there a way to file a complaint?
A: Yes. You can report issues to the Arkansas Office of Professional Conduct. However, it’s often faster to simply change attorneys.
Q: How can I avoid this problem in the future?
A: Start by asking about response time, availability, and who will be your point of contact.