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Well, is there six paragraphs of updates or nothing new to tell? This will never stop unless you make it a point to give regular updates without being asked. Communicating with clients on status, updates, and strategy is one of the core functions of your job.
I have to agree with SA1–I had a similar high volume practice where I barely kept my head afloat and I would always resent these emails from clients. Now that I am more senior, manage my own book, and have a lower volume practice I realize affirmative communication (before being asked for an update) is key to the attorney-client relationship and effective provision of services. Now, if a client asks me for an update, I see that as a failure on my end if they had to ask. Make it a practice that every month (for me, it’s when I’m entering my time) you send an email to the client if you haven’t connected with them that month yet. Even if it’s a short “still awaiting a ruling…” email.
I suggest you remind the client what you’re waiting on and that you’ll be sure to follow up when you have an update (ie, we’re awaiting the court’s ruling on our motion to dismiss and will let you know when we receive a ruling or update from the court). And/or ask to schedule a call with the client that way you can discuss the case, build rapport, and probably bill more for the same message.
If you’re having to give a 6 paragraph update, you’re not updating them often enough. Or you’re giving too much information.
If "everything's progressing fine there's nothing new to tell you" is the accurate response, then I don't see how you get to 6 paragraphs, nor do I see why you're complaining about such a simple response. I agree with others - either you're not updating your clients as often as you should be (hence the need for 6 paragraphs) or you talk too much.
6 paragraph response seems like they might need to be updated. Hop on a phone call with them for 5 minutes and provide an update, they have a right to know the status of their case.