Switching Injury Lawyers: Reasons And Strategy
Some accident victims wonder whether they can change to a different lawyer midway through their cases. You can switch lawyers with the right reasons and do it correctly.
Reasons to Switch Lawyers
You can switch lawyers for any reason if you can get a new one to take your case. However, the court might not allow you to switch lawyers if your main reason is to delay the proceedings. Below are some legitimate reasons to switch to a new personal injury lawyer.
Your Lawyer Falls Ill
You might need to change lawyers if the current one falls ill or dies. A short illness doesn't warrant a switch; the court may reschedule any upcoming session for a later date. However, a long-term illness or death may mean you need a new lawyer.
Your Lawyer Relocates
Complex injury cases can take a long time, even years, to conclude. A lot can change within that time. For example, your lawyer may relocate to a new country. Law firms have structures to deal with such cases. For example, your law firm will bring another lawyer up to speed before the current one leaves.
However, you do not have to work with a different lawyer in such a case. You can choose whichever lawyer handles your case, even if they are from a different firm.
Your Lawyer Discovers a Conflict of Interest
A conflict of interest arises if your interests conflict with your attorney's interest or the interests of a third party your lawyer represents. In such a case, your lawyer cannot guarantee they will give you the best legal representation possible. Your lawyer will likely be the one to suggest you look for a different lawyer.
Strategies
Switching lawyers is relatively simple. You just need to take the following steps.
Find a New Lawyer As Soon As Possible
Move first and find a new lawyer if you decide to switch. The more you delay, the more it may affect your case. Your current lawyer or friends can help you identify other lawyers to take the case. Once you identify a lawyer, explain your case and reasons for leaving the current one. You will then sign a contract if you agree to work together.
Inform the Other Parties of the Switch
Once you sign a new agreement with a new lawyer, you must inform the other parties to the case about the change. For example, you should inform the previous lawyer, court, and insurance companies associated with the case. It is often best to let your new lawyer handle the communications.
For more information, reach out to a personal injury lawyer near you.