You usually have the right to change auto accident lawyers in San Antonio during your case. However, this could affect your case in different ways. Here is what you should know before making a critical change:
Common Reasons People Change Lawyers in the Middle of a Case
Clients may decide they want to change lawyers for various reasons, such as:
- Their attorney doesn’t return their phone calls.
- They don’t agree with their attorney’s strategy for their case.
- Something doesn’t feel right to them.
- They have trouble reaching their lawyer.
- The attorney has too many other cases.
- The case is stalling.
- The lawyer isn’t spending enough time on the case.
Sometimes, trust is eroded during the process. If they don’t feel comfortable with their San Antonio distracted driving lawyer, they may decide to change legal representation.
Considerations for Firing a Car Accident Lawyer
Before you fire a car accident lawyer, you should carefully consider the possible implications, such as:
Unfamiliarity with the Case
The new lawyer you choose may be unfamiliar with your case and will need to take some time to get caught up with it. They will need to review your case, conduct research, see which documents have been filed in the case, and analyze any motions that have been filed and the legal strategy previously used.
Possible Delays
Because your new lawyer will need time to catch up with your case, this can cause your case to be delayed. If your case had already been filed in court, your new lawyer will need to make a motion to substitute counsel. Your timeline to recover compensation could be stalled.
While this is a drawback, it may make you feel more comfortable working with a lawyer who understands your goals and respects your wishes for how your case should be handled.
Fee Splits
Most personal injury attorneys take cases on a contingency-fee basis, so they’re not paid upfront for their legal services. Instead, they receive a percentage of the recovery they achieve at the end of the case.
When you fire your old attorney, your new one will need to pay them if your case settles. Because the attorney will have to pay a portion of the legal fees to another attorney, this could prevent many from accepting your case.
Former Attorney Responsibilities
If you decide to change lawyers in the middle of the case, the Texas Rules of Professional Conduct still require your attorney to protect your best interests and uphold all tenets of the attorney-client relationship. Your former lawyer must turn over all documents related to your case.
Your new injury attorney in San Antonio can try to make this process easier by handling it for you. They can request your file for you and make sure that they are current with the case.
Need New Legal Representation? Contact George Salinas Injury Lawyers
If you would like to establish a new attorney-client relationship with a lawyer who will be attentive to your needs, listen to you, and prioritize your best interests, contact George Salinas Injury Lawyers for a free consultation.