
For law firms, managing client intake is not just about attracting new cases—it’s also about knowing when and how to decline a potential case. A well-thought-out strategy for turning down cases can protect your firm’s reputation, preserve relationships, and maintain professionalism in an industry where reputation matters more than almost anywhere else. At The CMO Attorney, we understand the importance of a structured approach to declining cases while maintaining goodwill and respect for potential clients.
Why a Strategy for Turning Down Cases Matters
Declining a case can feel uncomfortable, but without a clear strategy for turning down cases, it can lead to negative reviews, miscommunication, or even ethical concerns. Having a plan ensures that your firm consistently communicates decisions in a professional, empathetic, and legally sound manner.
Law firms face various reasons for declining cases, including:
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Lack of expertise in the relevant practice area
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Conflict of interest with existing clients
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Insufficient resources to handle the case properly
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Cases that do not align with the firm’s focus or values
By using a strategy for turning down cases, you can address these challenges without damaging your firm’s credibility or relationships.
Key Components of a Successful Strategy for Turning Down Cases
A successful approach involves clarity, empathy, and professionalism. Here are essential components:
Prompt Communication
Time is critical in legal matters. Once your firm determines that a case cannot be accepted, communicate promptly with the potential client. Delays can create frustration, confusion, or even the impression of negligence.
Clear and Honest Explanation
Provide a concise explanation for why your firm cannot take the case. Transparency builds trust, even when the news is disappointing. For example, citing a lack of expertise or existing conflicts of interest helps potential clients understand that the decision is procedural, not personal.
Professional and Courteous Tone
Maintaining professionalism is paramount. Use polite, respectful language in all communications. Avoid legal jargon that could confuse or alienate potential clients. Your goal is to leave a positive impression, even if the client is disappointed.
Offer Alternatives
A proactive strategy for turning down cases includes recommending other qualified attorneys or resources. This demonstrates goodwill and positions your firm as helpful and connected within the legal community.
Document Your Decision
Proper documentation protects your firm legally and ethically. Keep records of declined cases, communications, and reasons for declining. This ensures accountability and can help resolve any potential disputes in the future.
Sample Communication for Turning Down a Case
Here’s an example of how a firm might communicate a declined case:
“Thank you for reaching out to The CMO Attorney. After reviewing the details of your matter, we believe that our firm may not be the best fit to handle your case effectively. We recommend consulting [Attorney/Referral Service], who specializes in this type of matter. We appreciate your understanding and wish you the best moving forward.”
This approach demonstrates clarity, professionalism, and empathy, aligning perfectly with a structured strategy for turning down cases.
Benefits of a Thoughtful Strategy
Implementing a strategy for turning down cases has several long-term benefits:
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Protects Your Reputation: Potential clients are more likely to remember your firm positively, even if their case was declined.
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Preserves Relationships: By handling declines gracefully, you maintain professional relationships with clients and referral partners.
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Supports Ethical Practice: Proper case management ensures your firm adheres to professional responsibility standards.
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Streamlines Operations: Having a standard process saves time, reduces confusion, and allows your team to focus on cases your firm can handle effectively.
Training Staff on the Strategy
A strategy is only as effective as the people implementing it. Train intake teams and attorneys on the proper way to decline cases. Ensure everyone understands:
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How to assess if a case fits the firm’s focus
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How to communicate declines professionally
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How to recommend alternative resources
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How to document the decision in the firm’s CRM or case management system
Regular role-playing and scenario-based training can reinforce the strategy, making it a seamless part of your client intake process.
Maintaining Client Relationships After Declining a Case
Even when declining a case, your firm can leave a positive impression that encourages future referrals. A thoughtful strategy for turning down cases can include:
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Sending follow-up emails to check if the client found assistance
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Offering free initial consultation options elsewhere
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Providing general guidance or resources when appropriate
These efforts reflect well on your firm’s professionalism and reinforce your reputation as a trusted legal advisor.
Integrating Technology into Your Strategy
Modern law firms can leverage technology to streamline the strategy for turning down cases. Tools like client intake software and automated communication templates can:
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Track case inquiries and decline reasons
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Send timely and professional emails
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Generate reports for quality control and training purposes
By integrating technology, your firm ensures consistent application of the strategy while freeing staff to focus on active cases.
Handling Emotional Responses When Declining a Case
Even with a clear strategy for turning down cases, some potential clients may react emotionally to being declined. How your firm handles these situations can significantly impact your reputation and future referrals.
Stay Calm and Professional
Regardless of the client’s reaction, maintain a calm and respectful demeanor. Avoid becoming defensive or argumentative. Responding professionally reinforces your firm’s credibility and commitment to ethical practice.
Acknowledge the Client’s Feelings
Empathy goes a long way. A simple acknowledgment such as, “We understand this may be disappointing, and we appreciate you reaching out to us,” helps diffuse tension and shows that your firm values the individual’s concerns.
Reinforce Alternatives
Reiterate any alternative resources or referrals you previously offered. Emphasizing that the client still has viable options demonstrates that the decision was made thoughtfully and with their best interest in mind.
Document the Interaction
If a potential client reacts negatively, documenting the conversation is important for your records. Note the client’s response, your communication, and any follow-up actions. This ensures accountability and protects your firm in case of future disputes.
Follow Up Appropriately
After the initial decline, consider sending a brief follow-up message to confirm that the client received your recommendations. This reinforces professionalism and may turn a difficult situation into a positive experience, potentially generating referrals or future business.
Handling emotional responses effectively is an essential part of a comprehensive strategy for turning down cases, ensuring your firm leaves a lasting impression of professionalism, empathy, and ethical integrity.
Contact The CMO Attorney Today!
A structured strategy for turning down cases is essential for law firms seeking to maintain professionalism, uphold ethical standards, and preserve relationships. By implementing prompt communication, clear explanations, courteous interactions, and alternative recommendations, The CMO Attorney helps firms navigate these situations with confidence and grace. Every declined case is an opportunity to strengthen your firm’s reputation and demonstrate professionalism.
If your firm wants guidance on implementing an effective strategy for turning down cases, sign up for a free consultation with The CMO Attorney today.
Sources
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American Bar Association – Client Intake and Management
Provides guidance on proper client intake procedures, ethical considerations, and managing client relationships.
https://www.americanbar.org/groups/law_practice/ -
Law Technology Today – Case Intake Best Practices
Discusses the role of technology in streamlining intake processes and professional communication.
https://www.lawtechnologytoday.org/ -
Legal Ethics in Practice – Handling Conflicts and Declines
Focuses on the ethical aspects of declining cases and maintaining client trust.
https://www.legalethicsinpractice.com/
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