Reevaluating Your Current Lawyer: Knowing When & How To Make The Change
If you are considering, “Can I switch attorneys in my personal injury case?” the answer is Yes You Can! Understanding the process of when to fire your lawyer, how to fire a lawyer, and what to expect is so important.
Can I Fire My Attorney & Hire Georgia Trial Attorneys?
Absolutely! If you are contemplating such a move, remember: every client has the right to change attorneys during their case. Feeling like your lawyer took your settlement without satisfactory service? This may be the red flag to reassess. Every attorney-client relationship hinges on trust. The confidence that your legal representative will secure the best possible outcome is vital. If any hesitation looms, it may be time to consider your alternatives.
When Should I Think About Changing Attorneys?
Switching lawyers is not uncommon. Clients fire and hire new attorneys all the time and for different reasons. Red flags that you’ve hired a bad attorney or need to hire a new attorney include:
- Poor Communication: Consistent and clear communication is fundamental. The State Bar of Georgia requires that attorneys should “keep the client reasonably informed about the status of the matter.” An attorney who does not respond to emails, calls, or questions isn’t just frustrating; it can jeopardize your case. You should not have to beg your attorney for information.
- Trust Issues: The attorney-client relationship is built on mutual trust. You should feel that your attorney is doing everything in their power to maximize your settlement. That’s their job. If you are doubting your lawyer’s commitment, reevaluate your choice.
- Unprofessional Conduct: Missed meetings, lack of preparation, and forgetfulness can indicate deeper issues like missing hearings, poor trial preparation, and mismanagement of settlement funds.
- Strategic Issues: You hire an attorney because he or she is supposedly an expert in personal injury cases. You put your trust in this attorney. However, he or she cannot effectively communicate what they are doing and why they are doing it. This is a red flag that you should consider hiring a new attorney. As the client you deserve to know why certain actions are being taken or not and your attorney should ask for your input. Remember, this is YOUR case. You should never be left wondering if my lawyer took my settlement or feel out of the loop regarding decisions made with your funds.
- Disciplinary Actions: If your attorney has been disciplined or disbarred, you should immediately consider finding a new attorney.
Is it Ever Too Late to Fire My Attorney?
Generally, it’s never too late to reconsider your legal representation. However, if your current attorney has made significant progress in your case, like negotiating a settlement, it might complicate the process. If a lawsuit has been filed and a offer made, your old attorney has a claim for their attorneys’ fees. If that offer was obtained prior to the filing of the lawsuit, the old attorney’s claim to those fees is easy to defeat. Your new attorney can advise you on the best course of action, ensuring your interest are paramount.
How Do You Fire Your Lawyer?
- Draft a Formal Notice: If you are seeking a “how to fire your attorney letter sample”? Your new attorney can guide you. A clear, concise letter stating your decision is crucial. You can fire your lawyer by email, but always back it up with a printed version for record-keeping.
- Retrieve Your Case Files: Your new attorney can handle the process of obtaining all the necessary documents and files from your former attorney.
- Settle Financial Obligations: Wondering, “How to fire a lawyer and get your money back?” Your new lawyer will discuss any financial agreements, and if possible, find arrangements that minimize costs.
- Seek a Continuance: If you’re in the midst of a trial, you might wonder, “If I fire my attorney, can I get a continuance?” In most cases, yes. This gives your new attorney time to familiarize themselves with your case.
Hire Georgia Trial Attorneys Today!
Dissatisfied with your current attorney? Maybe you want a second opinion. Or perhaps, you’re asking, “Does it look bad to switch lawyers?” Georgia Trial Attorneys are here to provide clear, efficient, and skilled guidance. Just pick up the phone and dial 833-4TheWin. Let us elevate your representation. Call Today for a free and confidential consultation. Clients come to us every week from a number of different law firms. We’re here to secure the justice and compensation you deserve!