Prospective clients desperate for a miracle or who have been through several lawyers may have expectations that simply cannot be met. Clients who are needy, controlling or unreasonably demanding of your time without reward may blame you for an unsuccessful outcome. Practise defensive lawyering, even if a client may not seem risky. Advise the client about the potential downside of any decision, and provide enough information to allow your client to make an informed decision. Don't be afraid to give bad news, and put it in writing. Document everything — your advice, your client's instructions, phone calls and voice mails. Retain e-mails and any other e-communications. Copy your client on all correspondence — yours, and letters received by others. And if the relationship breaks down, it may be advisable to end the retainer.