Can I Fire My Personal Injury Attorney?

You have the right to fire your personal injury attorney nearly any time during your case for any reason.

What are the Costs of Firing Your Attorney?

Any unused retainer fees must be refunded upon termination. Your previous attorney may be entitled to a lien on the proceeds awarded in your case to ensure that they receive payment for any completed work that has not been paid for.

What should you Consider When Firing Your Attorney?

First and foremost, you should feel secure in your representation. However, take these factors into consideration before you change representation:

• If you’ve changed lawyers more than once, you may have a difficult time finding a replacement. You could have the reputation of a tough client
• Your new attorney may not have adequate time to prepare for an immediate or upcoming hearing, deadline, or appearance
• If your case is especially complex, you want your lawyer to be as familiar with your file as possible. Switching right before trial begins can cause significant delays in progress
• Your new lawyer may require a retainer or an additional investigation

You will not sabotage your case if you fire or switch attorneys. But, before you take the leap, talk to your attorney first. You could discover that your biggest issues could be out of your attorney’s control (e.g., the case is moving slowly or you’re unhappy with a ruling). If the situation is salvageable, we recommend you continue the client-attorney relationship.

If you have done everything in your power to address your disappointments, it may be time to terminate or replace your attorney.

What are the Reasons to Replace or Fire Your Injury Lawyer?

Like any relationship, there are typically telltale signs that something’s gone wrong. Some common reasons to secure new representation include the following:

• Lack of attention to your case
• Questionable fees and other costs of the suit
• Frequent requests for already-completed documents or forms
• Notifications for missed deadlines or documents
• Requests for time extensions without a clear, relevant, or valid explanation

What are the Steps to Fire Your Attorney?

If you want to fire your attorney, follow these steps:

1. Read over the initial contract to see if there is a specific procedure to terminate the relationship
2. Notify your attorney of the termination in a formal, written letter. Ask that all documentation be sent to you
3. Secure a new personal injury attorney
4. If your case is pending, notify the court of the withdrawal or change in representation in a formal, written letter

Contact a Personal Injury Attorney Today

If you or a loved one have been injured as a result of someone else’s negligence, contact Wilson Kehoe Winingham’s injury lawyers in Indianapolis. The attorneys at WKW can help you get the compensation you deserve. Call 317.920.6400 or fill out an online contact form for a free, no-obligation case evaluation.

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