What Do Clients Want from Their Lawyers

This article, however, will show how the research upon which the ABA story was based–as well as substantial research with other clients ranging from large organizations to individuals–indicates that what clients want most from their lawyers is an aspect of legal services given too little attention both in legal education and professional development: effective lawyer-client communication. After reviewing extensive social science research on causes of client dissatisfaction, this article will conclude by suggesting a variety of ways–from easy to ambitious initiatives—that law schools and law firms can provide greater emphasis on the importance of effective communication with clients, teach effective interviewing and counseling, and assess competency in basic skills of listening and explaining.