Yes, you can fire your personal injury lawyer at any time. You have the legal right to terminate your attorney’s services and choose a new lawyer. However, there are important considerations and potential financial obligations you should understand before making this decision.If you need to fire your Lafayette personal injury lawyer, we’ll explain how and what you must consider before doing it. Even if you’re unhappy with your lawyer, it may be better for your case to avoid switching to a new one.
Your Right to Change Attorneys
You can fire your attorney if you’ve signed a contract. You have the absolute right to terminate your attorney’s services at any time during your case as long as you provide proper notice.
The attorney-client relationship is based on trust and confidence. You’re not obligated to continue working with a lawyer you’ve lost faith in. Your case belongs to you, not your attorney, and you have the final say in who represents you.
Laborde Earles injury was great for me they took care of me very fast and professional. If for any reason I need legal help they will be who I use.
ClientWhy Would I Fire My Personal Injury Lawyer?
People choose to change attorneys for reasons like:
- Poor communication often tops the list, with attorneys failing to return calls or inform their clients about their case’s development.
- Disagreements about strategy or case handling can create tension between clients and their lawyers.
- A lack of progress in your case might indicate it’s time for a fresh perspective from new counsel.
I thank God for Digger & David. I don’t know what we would have done if it hadn’t have been for them.
Rick Smith | ClientThe Steps to Fire Your Personal Injury Lawyer
Making the switch requires following proper procedures. First, it’s better to have another lawyer ready to take your case and give you advice before you fire your personal injury lawyer. So, take your time to find one that you trust.
Next, review your contract with your current lawyer about any clauses about termination. They may also put a lien on any future settlement you win so they can get paid for their work, and your new lawyer may need to work out a fee-sharing agreement. You won’t have to pay twice if you fire your current lawyer.
Once ready, write a formal termination letter to your current attorney stating your decision to fire them and when their services will end. Also, let them know your new lawyer’s contact information so they can transfer your case file.
What About Additional Fees?
Your lawyer may have had to pay additional fees while working on your case, like filing fees or expert witness fees. You may have to reimburse your old lawyer for these extra costs. This depends on your contract’s language, so be sure you understand it so you’re not hit with an unexpected bill.
The reassurance from Digger and his staff gave me that renewed hope that it’s going to be okay down the road.
ClientProtecting Your Case During the Transition
Taking certain precautions helps ensure a smooth transition when you’re changing between lawyers. First, know your legal deadlines, such as the statute of limitations or court deadlines, that could be broken if you switch. Your new lawyer can inform you about these.
Document your reasons for changing attorneys if you need to explain yourself later, and keep copies of all the documents and correspondence you have from your old and new lawyers. You’ll need to communicate with both lawyers during the transition period until your case is fully transferred.
Finally, you may need to update other parties in your case about your new representation. Your new lawyer should be able to do this on your behalf, or you should be given the contact information of the people you’ll need to notify from your case file.
They treated us like no other people would. Whenever we needed something they were there for us. I put my trust in them and I don’t regret it.
ClientHow to Choose Your New Attorney
When selecting new representation, talk frankly with them during your consultation about your problems with your current lawyer. Ask them about their communication style and see if it matches your preferences and needs.
If communication is not the problem with your current lawyer, discuss what you’ve been experiencing and ask how your potential lawyer would overcome the issue. Maybe they have more staff to handle your caseload or more legal experience in your type of case.
How to Address Issues Before Firing Your Lawyer
Before making the decision to fire your lawyer, also consider these steps:
- Communicate your concerns directly with your current lawyer. They may be unaware of your dissatisfaction and might improve their service.
- Request a different attorney within the same firm if you’re working with a large law office. This will make it much easier to switch your case.
- Document all communication attempts and issues you’ve had with your current lawyer in case you need to justify your decision later.
Making the Right Decision for Your Case
Remember, while you have the right to fire your personal injury lawyer, it’s a decision that shouldn’t be taken lightly. Consider all aspects carefully, including the potential impact on your case and financial implications.
Are you frustrated with your current legal representation in Lafayette, Alexandria, Marksville, or New Iberia? Contact Laborde Earles Injury Lawyers today. We can discuss your concerns and help you understand your options for new representation.
