by Tim Lemieux

Back in 1998, “inadequate discovery of fact or inadequate investigation” was the fifth most common cause of a claim when we looked at the top five reasons a claim was made against a lawyer. Since then the claims cause of “inadequate investigation” has climbed steadily upwards to the number one spot: By 2014, this category of errors had more than doubled in frequency. Moreover, claims resulting from inadequate investigation or discovery of facts also increased proportionately in terms of all LAWPRO claims, rising to 22 per cent of errors reported from eight per cent.

Why this significant increase in this type of error? Perhaps it is a symptom of “BlackBerry legal advice:” Quick questions, and answers without context exchanged between people in a rush. These claims go to the very core of what lawyers are supposed to do for their clients – give legal advice – and basically involve the lawyer not taking extra time or thought to dig deeper and ask appropriate questions on the matter.

In plaintiff litigation claims, we see the following kinds of inadequate investigation claims:

  • failing to show due diligence and reasonable efforts to discover all the parties to a lawsuit within the limitation period – for instance, not ordering a police report in a motor vehicle collision case;
  • failing to identify and sue the correct defendant in an occupier’s liability case;
  • when acting for the plaintiffs, failing to name all potential plaintiffs, using their correct corporate names, (e.g., both a principal shareholder and his/her corporation, where both have a cause of action); and
  • failing to note and comply with an order requiring that a truly independent other lawyer is present when an Anton Piller order is executed.

To avoid these claims, take the time to read between the lines so you can identify all appropriate issues and concerns. Ask yourself: What does the client really want? Does everything add up? Are there any issues or concerns that should be highlighted for the client? If something doesn’t add up – dig deeper.

This article originally appeared in the August 2012 issue of LAWPRO Magazine. All past issues of LAWPRO Magazine can be found at www.lawpro.ca/magazinearchives