Can You Fire Your Personal Injury ?

Going through an injury and a lawsuit is a stressful experience, which is why it’s important to have the right lawyer. However, you may feel dissatisfied with the experience your lawyer is providing. Your choice of attorney shouldn’t be causing more problems within an already difficult experience, and if the problem is persistent, you may consider firing your attorney.

If you or a loved one has decided to fire your attorney, contact the personal injury attorneys at Zinda Law Group at X and receive a free consultation regarding your claim.

Can I Fire My Personal Injury Attorney?

For the most part, it is possible to fire your personal injury attorney. Although in some cases a judge might deny a change in attorney because of how far along the case is, for the most part you are the one in charge of your legal representation, and can decide who does and does not represent you in court.

The attorney you have representing you can be extremely beneficial to your claim—but could also be extremely detrimental if they are not doing a satisfactory job.

Potential Reasons Why You Want To Fire Your Personal Injury Attorney

There are many reasons why you may no longer want to work with your personal injury attorney. Some of the most common reasons are:

Communication issues

You might have a different communication style or communication needs than your attorney. Alternately, your attorney might not be keeping you up to date on the progression of your case. Your personal injury claim is important to you, and it is understandable that you want to stay informed. It may also feel as though your attorney is not giving your claim the attention it deserves when you don’t hear from them.

Over-Promising

Lawyers always want to achieve maximum compensation for their clients, but it is important for them to be realistic in their assessment of your claim. Getting an experienced lawyer who can confidently estimate your chances of succeeding in court is very important. No one wants to participate in a lawsuit without good reason; they are time-consuming and stressful. At the same time, no one can say with certainty how your case will go. No lawyer should provide an absolute guarantee, because no lawyer can fulfill that promise. You should go into any legal action with a clear picture of your chances and circumstances, and if your lawyer hasn’t given you that, you may feel dissatisfied.

Lack of Cost Transparency

It is important to know what costs you will encounter in your pursuit of compensation. Your attorney should make these costs known to you upfront. It can be frustrating to encounter costs and fees that you did not expect.

Steps To Take When Firing Your Personal Injury Attorney

1.   Talk To Your Attorney

Speak to your attorney about what is frustrating or not satisfying you in your relationship. Every client is different and has different needs, and it is possible your attorney will make an effort to provide you with what you need. For example, some clients want to be updated constantly, even just with the news that there have been no new developments on the case. Other clients only want to hear from their attorney when something important happens. Explain how you feel your attorney could improve, and give them some time to make those changes. However, remember that your case may be time-sensitive. It would not be beneficial to give your attorney too much time. 

2.   Consider Your Options

Think about how practical it would be to fire your personal injury attorney. Depending on how far along your case is, your attorney might be very familiar with the details of your lawsuit. A new attorney would not have the same experience with your lawsuit and your case, and would have to take time to get up to speed.

3.   Put It In Writing

If your attorney has not acted satisfactorily even after you bring up your needs, you may decide it would be best to let them go as your attorney. If you have decided that you are going to fire your attorney, be sure to put your notice to them in writing, such as a letter or an email. If you are writing a letter, keep a copy for yourself. Explain why you have decided to part ways with your attorney, but keep your letter professional and calm. While you may be frustrated with the way things have turned out, an amicable separation between client and attorney is always the best and least stressful option.

4.   Speak To Other Attorneys

Now that you have fired your attorney, you will need to look for a new one. Before you hire a new attorney, speak to them about the history of your case and what happened with your previous attorney. Explain how you would like to be treated by your attorney, and try to get confirmation that any potential attorney treats his clients in a way that you will be satisfied with. 

Do You Need To Pay Fees After Firing Your Attorney?

It is likely you will need to pay something to your attorney, even if you fire them. Depending on how far along your case is, your attorney may have already done a significant amount of work. Although it depends on your contract and the laws in your state, it is likely there is some agreement for payment. Your attorney could also have a “lien” on your case, which entitles them to a part of whatever settlement you receive, which could be determined through a percentage or through an hourly rate.

Need Help? Contact Zinda Law Group Today

The lawyers at Zinda Law Group are experienced and hardworking. Your case will receive personal attention from attorneys who have achieved compensation in many previous cases. Zinda Law Group is also upfront about the costs of your personal injury claim: if you do not receive a favorable verdict, you will not pay anything.

If you are dissatisfied with your current personal injury attorney, call (888) 912-5366 for a free consultation with Zinda Law Group.

Meetings with attorneys by appointment only.