There’s no shortage of opinions about court-appointed attorneys, and unfortunately, a lot of them are based on outdated stereotypes or plain misinformation. If you’ve been assigned a lawyer by the court, it’s normal to wonder if you’re going to get the support and advocacy you deserve.
At the Harris Firm, we believe in being honest and transparent about what we do, and just as importantly, what we don’t. Let’s take a few minutes to bust the most common myths about court-appointed lawyers and help you see the truth behind the label.
🚫 Myth #1: “Court-appointed attorneys don’t care.”
Truth: We care deeply, because your outcome matters.
This one stings a little, because we know where it comes from. People assume that if a lawyer didn’t choose their client, they won’t be emotionally invested. That couldn’t be further from the truth, especially here at the Harris Firm.
When we’re appointed to a case, we take that responsibility seriously. We don’t show up to check a box. We show up because your family, your future, and your voice deserve to be protected. We prepare thoroughly, speak up boldly, and stay present every step of the way.
The truth is, many of us do this work because we care, because we believe everyone deserves high-quality legal support, not just those who can afford it.
🧾 Myth #2: “They’re just public defenders for civil cases.”
Truth: Court-appointed Birmingham family law attorneys are private attorneys who contract with the court—many from respected law firms.
This myth gets tossed around a lot, and it can make people feel like they’re getting “government leftovers.” But here’s the real story: in Alabama, most court-appointed attorneys for family law cases are private attorneys, not government employees. They’re hand-selected by judges and court systems because of their experience, professionalism, and skill in handling sensitive family matters.
When you get a court-appointed attorney from the Harris Firm, you’re getting someone backed by a full legal team, deep resources, and a track record of strong family law representation. This isn’t a second-tier setup. We provide quality, experienced legal care, appointed or retained.
📞 Myth #3: “They won’t return my calls or explain anything.”
Truth: You have the right to clear, respectful communication, and we provide it.
We’ve all heard horror stories about attorneys who won’t call back, who show up late to court, or who leave clients confused about what’s happening. At the Harris Firm, we pride ourselves on communication. We keep you updated, answer your questions, and explain what’s happening in real language, not courtroom jargon. Whether you’re figuring out what a custody hearing means or trying to understand a DHR case plan, we’ll walk through it together, step by step.
If you ever feel unsure or overwhelmed, we want you to speak up. You deserve clarity and connection, no matter how your lawyer came to be part of your case.
🧠 Myth #4: “They won’t fight hard for me like a hired lawyer would.”
Truth: We fight with the same dedication, whether we were hired or appointed.
This one hits close to home for us, because we know how personal these cases are. When someone’s trying to protect their children, keep their family together, or prove they’re doing their best they deserve an attorney who shows up ready to fight.
Whether you walked through our front door with a check in hand or your case landed on our desk through a court appointment, we go to battle with the same grit, preparation, and professionalism. Your case doesn’t get any less attention because of how it started. You are entitled to real advocacy, and that’s what you’ll get with us.
💬 Myth #5: “If I didn’t choose them, they’re not really my lawyer.”
Truth: You are still their client—and your voice is at the center of everything.
Just because you didn’t pick your lawyer doesn’t mean you’re on the outside of your own case. When a court appoints us, you become our client in every way that matters.
That means:
- Your voice guides our strategy.
- Your questions deserve answers.
- Your goals shape how we advocate in court.
We’re not just here to speak over you. We’re here to amplify your voice in a system that can feel cold or confusing. Once that attorney-client relationship begins, we’re committed to protecting your rights just like we would for any other client.
🌾 When It Comes to Myths, Here’s the Truth That Stays Standing
You may not have chosen your lawyer. You may still feel unsure about the court process. What you’re getting from us isn’t luck. It’s legal care rooted in purpose and heart.
At the Harris Firm, court-appointed doesn’t mean careless. It doesn’t mean less effort, fewer answers, or lower expectations. It means the court trusted us to step in and carry part of your burden with strength and clarity.
Don’t let the myths shake your confidence. You still have rights. You still have a voice. You still have someone on your side who sees the person behind the paperwork and fights for you. In family law, it gets personal; and we take that personally, no matter how your case came to us.
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