If you're not happy with your lawyer's performance, you may first want to address it with them. Communication often resolves misunderstandings, sets expectations, and helps establish boundaries. 

If that doesn't work, you may want to explore other options. This could be asking for dispute assistance from a bar association, hiring a new attorney, or filing a formal complaint.

Extended silence from a lawyer is a frustrating experience. It can be difficult to know if the wait times are reasonable or whether you should start getting concerned. The articles below offer some insights about setting and managing expectations. 

If you haven't heard back from your attorney in a reasonable time, the State Bar of Texas has a Client-Attorney Assistance Program that may help reestablish communications. 

If you were charged the wrong amount, talking to the attorney can often clear up the situation. If the attorney is unwilling to come to an agreement, the State Bar of Texas dispute resolution team may be able to help.

Many bar associations offer local assistance with fee disputes. These types of services are offered by associations in Austin, Dallas, Houston, Jefferson County, San Antonio, Tarrant County, and a few other areas. 

If your lawyer breached the Texas Disciplinary Rules of Professional Conduct or violated their professional duties, you can consider filing a grievance or a formal complaint about the misconduct.

You may consider filing a grievance if a lawyer stops communicating, starts missing filing deadlines or court dates, or refuses to give you your client file. In the most serious cases, you may be able to sue your attorney for legal malpractice.