A lawyer decides whether to take a case by doing a risk vs reward analysis. When risk exceeds the anticipated reward, your case is turned down. The top 14 reasons why a personal injury lawyer won't take your case  include: Unclear Liability Comparative Negligence vs Contributory Negligence State The Case is Complex The Anticipate Recovery is Low Tort Reform and Damage Caps Limit Potential Recovery Severity of Injury Governmental Units and Sovereign Immunity Medical Care Issues Proximity Issues Unrealistic Client Expectations The Client is a Poor Witness Low Property Damage Car Accidents Preexisting Medical Conditions The Client Waited Too Long