Is my ex's lawyer required to clarify their position... or can they just drop in and out?

So I received a lawyer’s letter from my ex about custody. We started negotiations, but halfway through, I got an email from him saying he told the lawyer to step aside and he’d handle things directly with me now. Suddenly, the whole negotiation changes direction. I’ve sent the lawyer 3 emails, but no response at all. Is the lawyer supposed to clarify her position with me, or can she just jump in and out of the situation like that? Anyone dealt with something similar?

That sounds so frustrating! In NY, I think the lawyer is supposed to inform you if they’re stepping away. Maybe they can’t just dip in and out like that without letting you know. Have you tried calling the lawyer to follow up?

@Serenity
Yeah, I emailed her multiple times but she didn’t respond… I’m just really confused now. IDK what my next step should be.

@Serenity
If she’s not replying, maybe you could file a complaint with the bar or ask for written clarification. It’s not normal for a lawyer to leave you hanging like this.

I had a similar issue before! My lawyer was supposed to be representing me, but there were moments when it felt like they just vanished and then came back without notice. Not fun.

Ciel said:
I had a similar issue before! My lawyer was supposed to be representing me, but there were moments when it felt like they just vanished and then came back without notice. Not fun.

Exactly! It feels like I don’t know where I stand with the lawyer at all. It’s like they’re picking and choosing when to be involved.

Seems like your ex is trying to reset the terms without a lawyer involved, but if the lawyer hasn’t officially withdrawn, that could be an issue. Maybe you could ask the lawyer directly if she’s still representing him?

@Brogan
I did ask her directly, but no answer yet… it’s like I’m being ignored at this point.

Oh wow, that’s messy! It might be a good idea to clarify with the court if the lawyer is still involved in any way, especially if it gets more complicated.

Noe said:
Oh wow, that’s messy! It might be a good idea to clarify with the court if the lawyer is still involved in any way, especially if it gets more complicated.

Yeah, I might have to take that route. Honestly, it’s just a huge headache right now.

Sorry you’re dealing with this. It’s a red flag if the lawyer is just not responding. If you don’t get answers soon, I’d say going to the bar might be your best option. Keep a record of everything.

Ozzie said:
Sorry you’re dealing with this. It’s a red flag if the lawyer is just not responding. If you don’t get answers soon, I’d say going to the bar might be your best option. Keep a record of everything.

I’ve been keeping track of everything, just in case. I’m starting to think I’ll have no choice but to escalate it.