Thursday, February 4, 2010

You cannot make everyone happy!

It's been a very "interesting" day. 

Got several nasty emails from a client's wife.  She's been very busy for the past 2 days trying to "ruin me". She's been calling and emailing numerous people.  I tried to call and talk to her today, but I went directly to voice mail and she never called me back.  (She is very bold in emails but I'm sure she does not walk to actually talk to me!) 

Someone called me because they were concerned about me.   As soon as the person's name was mentioned I just said...I represent her husband in their divorce...then...all I heard was laughter. Seasoned attorneys always want to know - the rest of the story!

It's hard to defend yourself against this sort of "attack".  I have determined that it is easier to just let the person vent.   As a family law attorney, I have tried to develop a tough skin when this sort of thing happens.  It does not happen often, but it does happen.   I figure it's just part of the job.  Making a big production only "fuels the flame".  Taking the high road and behaving in a calm reasonable mode seems to be the best solution for everyone involved.   

I find that people that are "on a mission" eventually find a new mission or lose momentum when they can't get a "fight" going.  Most just need a good night's sleep and time to "re-set" themselves.

Why are her complaints not bothering me?
Because she admitted in an email to me that...
I am not her attorney
She admits that I told her that I could not ethcially represent both the husband and wife in a Texas divorce
She admits that I represent the husband in the divorce
She agrees that we have no "contract" or "legal services contract"
I have never received any money from her - She admits that her husband gave me the money
I was allowed to communicate with her since he was pro se (no attorney representing her)

I wish I could say more but I won't,,,

NOW...DON'T YOU WANT TO KNOW THE REST OF THE STORY?

Quick Update:  The attorney mentioned above was so upset by the emails and phone calls received that this person strongly advised me to file for a restraining order immediately for my safety and to retain legal counsel to sue for defamation and slander.  I certainly hope this won't be necessary!  What this woman does not understand is how her untrue and exaggerated statements (now in oral and written form) plus witnesses that are willing to testify against her -- could really hurt HER.  If I won a defamation or slander lawsuit, I could be awarded $$$.  Even if she does not have any money, I could then get a financial judgment that would prevent her from ever buying anything on credit in the future -- even a used car!  A judgment can also hurt her future employment.  Plus, many employers won't hire people that have restraining orders against them! 

I hope she gets some sleep and calms down.

In a sad way, it is amusing... she thinks I'm running scared.  Instead, I'm backing up and printing all communications from her and the people she has been contacting.  To be safe, I am storing them away from my home and office for safe keeping. 


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