You got hurt in a crash that was someone else’s fault, and you hired a car accident lawyer to help you pursue compensation.
However, your case isn’t going the way you hoped. Maybe your lawyer is hard to reach and is leaving you to guess how things are progressing.
Perhaps the attorney who signed your case has pushed you off on a junior associate you don’t feel comfortable with.
It could be your counsel is just ineffective, inexperienced, or is in over their head.
Now you’re wondering, can you change your car accident lawyer while your case is pending?
The answer is yes. As the client, you have the absolute right to discharge your counsel with or without cause.
However, there are a few things to consider before you hand your lawyer their walking papers.
Will Changing Lawyers Hurt My Car Accident Case?
No, changing lawyers will not automatically hurt your car accident case, although it could if you don’t manage the switch effectively.
Your current attorney will have to transfer your case files to your new counsel, who will then need time to read up on the case, pursue their own investigations, and otherwise get up to speed with where things stand.
This is not an easy task, and you should anticipate some delays.
That said, you will help your case by putting it in more competent hands.
When Is the Best (and Worst) Time to Switch Lawyers?
In one sense, the best time to switch lawyers is now.
The longer you wait, the more work your new attorney will have to perform. Worse, the more money you may ultimately owe your current lawyer for the work they’ve already done and are continuing to do while you weigh your decision.
Generally, it’s easier to change lawyers earlier in the case, and before they’ve actually filed suit. Prior to this point, you can simply dismiss your attorney once you have a new one lined up.
However, once your lawsuit has been filed, your new lawyer may need to take an extra step and file a notice of substitution with the court.
How to Change Your Car Accident Lawyer in Durham, NC
The first step in changing counsel is choosing a car accident lawyer to replace your current one. Approach this task carefully, as you won’t want to switch attorneys a second time.
Next, inform your current lawyer that you are terminating your working relationship.
Ask them to begin the process of transferring files to your new attorney, and also discuss payment for work they’ve performed to date.
They may have placed an attorney charging lien on your case, which gives them the right to financial recovery from whatever compensation your new attorney wins on your behalf.
If you are terminating the attorney for cause, you can report your concerns to the North Carolina State Bar.
Ready to Switch? Contact Our Car Accident Lawyers Today
If you feel like it’s time to change your car accident lawyer, it’s time to talk to Kreger Brodish LLP.
Our 200+ 5-star reviews on Google speak to how satisfied our clients are with our services, and we believe we can serve you and your case well.
Contact us today to get started with your free, no-obligation case review and consultation.
