Can You Switch Personal Injury Lawyers?

You can absolutely switch personal injury lawyers if you’re not happy with your current attorney.

If you feel your current personal injury lawyer is not handling your case well, you can switch to another attorney-even in the middle of your case. However, there are a few considerations to make before switching, including how to select new representation.

For a free legal consultation, call 631-451-7900

Why do You want to Switch Personal Injury Attorneys?

Pinpointing the reason you want to change lawyers can help you on several fronts. First, you can discuss your issue with your lawyer and potentially work through it. If the issue can’t be resolved, knowing what led to this decision can help you identify what you want in your new attorney.

Common reasons to switch to a different lawyer include:

  • Failure to return calls or emails
  • A lack of information on your case
  • No explanation of legal proceedings or paperwork
  • Stalled progress on the case
  • Disagreement over the direction of the case
  • A tense or deteriorating relationship
  • Failure to achieve a fair settlement offer or agreement

Even if there has been no egregious problem in how your lawyer has treated your case, you may find that you simply don’t get along. Your attorney is part of your life for weeks, months, and even years. As such, your team should be united in your pursuit of compensation.

Possible Challenges when Changing Lawyers

While you have the right to switch personal injury lawyers, there are some potential challenges to consider when making the decision:

You May Have to Pay Your Former Attorney for Their Time and Efforts

In New York, personal injury lawyers are paid on a contingency-fee-basis, meaning they only receive payment if you receive a settlement.

Consequently, if you decide to change representation before your case is resolved, your prior attorney may be entitled to a portion of the legal fee once the case is resolved.

Your New Attorney Needs to Familiarize Themselves with Your Case

Your new attorney will need to get up to speed on the background and evidence of your case before moving forward. This can be especially challenging if your case has been ongoing for quite some time; the change may cost you even more time.

You Have a Limited Time to File a Lawsuit

Another consideration is the statute of limitations. In New York, you generally have three years to file a lawsuit, per CVP §214. However, this deadline could be shortened or come with stipulations.

For instance, when filing against a municipality, you must file a notice of your claim within 90 days, per GMU §50-E. If you haven’t filed yet, don’t forget this deadline while you search for a new lawyer. The law does not extend this deadline even if you switch representatives.

What Should You Look for in a New Attorney?

Understanding where the relationship deteriorated with your previous lawyer is a starting point while looking for a new one. Furthermore, there are other ways to identify a good fit with your new personal injury attorney.

Research a firm’s:

For example, if you were injured in a slip and fall at an apartment complex, you can look for a firm that has successfully handled similar cases. When interviewing and researching lawyers, you can also gauge how responsive they are throughout the process, as well as the promises they make when taking on your case.

Above all, ask questions and express the concerns you had regarding your previous lawyer. Like any relationship, the one with your new attorney will function best when you are honest about your expectations and desires. You’re forming a new partnership. You want someone who shares your goals and expectations.

Take Advantage of These Resources

You can further narrow down your choices by utilizing the experience of others as well as your own impressions. Use any of the following to gain more information about a potential lawyer:

  • Free consultations
  • Online reviews
  • Word-of-mouth recommendations
  • Rating sites

Most personal injury firms offer free case reviews, which provide a glimpse into how they will work on your case. Rating and review sites can also offer a peek into how a legal team operates, from both clients and even fellow lawyers.

Moreover, asking other people about their experiences with certain lawyers can yield insight into your options.

Complete a Free Case Evaluation form now

Get Your Free Consultation with us Today

Like our peers, Rosenberg & Gluck, L.L.P. offers free case reviews to anyone wanting to switch to a new personal injury lawyer. Feel free to test us, asking about our track record with cases like yours and how we can move forward with your insurance claim or lawsuit.

We assist clients in both English and Spanish. Call us today to get started.

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For a free legal consultation, call 516-451-7900

Practice Areas

Our Long Island Injury Lawyers Have Experience In

Truck Accidents
Accidents on the highways can be lethal events
Bicycle Accidents
Riding a bicycle should not be unsafe
Car Accidents
If you have been seriously injured, call our firm
Motorcycle Accidents
Motorcycle accidents often result in serious injury
Medical Malpractice
Medical mistakes can cause death ruin lives
Wrongful Death
When negligence results in the death of a loved me
Premises Liability
When hurt in a location, someone has to take responsibility
Brain Injury
Brain injuries can have long term severe effects
Dog Bites
Dog bites can cause serious injury

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Client Testimonials

“The amount I could get for my case was limited (due…

– Craig S., Car Accident Client

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– Steve G., Personal Injury Client

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