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While I do not disagree that some clients complain to pass the time, I have certainly seen substandard works from solicitors over the years and it is right for those clients to complain (to the Ombudsman if necessary).

As a solicitor, I have received several complaints myself over the course of 7 years. One, the client simply refused to read my letter using ordinary English but instead consulted a relative who had an American law degree. Another complained because the outcome of the court case was as I had stated at the start of the retainer. On the other two, I was told by my regulators there were no case to answer whatever.

Having said the above, I had the unfortunate moment of having to complain about a conveyancer who acted for me. I was forced to complain to the Ombudsman as the large regional firm rejected any issue to be complained about and simply closed my file. The Ombudsman decided in my favour but one thing I learn is that, it is very taxing to complain.

It might be the case that clients do not complain against us because they feel it is not worth the hassle, and also wonder how they can complain successfully against a lawyer, not because they do not have a reason to complain.