Have you ever taken on a client and later thought, “Why did I ever agree to this representation?” It’s very hard to turn away a potential client, especially when clients are scarce. But it is important to know when to say “no.” I’m sure you’ve come across the ultra-needy client, the crazy client, the never-good-enough client, or the constantly complaining client. When you meet with a potential client and you hear that little nagging voice saying, “Don’t walk, run,” listen to that voice. It’s almost never wrong. You need to ask yourself, is it worth the headache, the fee dispute, the meritless State Bar complaint, or the additional time and energy? Life’s too short. You’ll never regret turning away the wrong client. Besides, then you’ll be available when the right client comes along.
