If you are thinking about switching to a new attorney during an injury claim, there are some things you should know before making a change. You have the right to do this, but you want to be sure you are making the right decision.
The personal injury attorneys in South Bend at our firm are prepared to take your call no matter where you are in the claims process. The initial consultation is free of charge and comes with no obligation to take legal action.
Is it Legal to Switch Attorneys?
If you have signed a retainer with your current attorney, you may be wondering if you are legally allowed to change lawyers. The answer to that question is generally yes. The law allows anyone to choose who represents him or her in any kind of legal proceeding, including personal injury claims.
Lawyers must meet their clients’ needs with professionalism and to the best of their abilities. If your attorney fails to do this, you are legally allowed to seek out someone else who will meet your needs.
Consequences of Switching Attorneys
To avoid any negative repercussions when firing an attorney, it would be in your best interest to do so as early as possible during the claims process. The longer you wait to make the switch, the more work the first attorney will have done for you. The more work an attorney does for you, the more money you may owe him or her when your claim is either settled or a verdict has been reached.
The first attorney will want to be compensated for the work he or she did. Even if the attorney you are currently unhappy with is not returning your emails or phone calls, he or she may still have done work on your claim. The attorney is within his or her legal right to place a lien on your settlement.
However, your new attorney should review what your former attorney is claiming in terms of work and how much they are charging you before the old attorney is paid.
How to Find the Right Attorney
Finding the right person to represent you during your injury claim is one of the most important parts of the process. As you can imagine, hiring an unqualified attorney can have serious consequences.
You need to find someone you can trust, who is reliable and will keep your best interests in mind throughout the process.
It is also important that the attorney you hire has experience with cases like yours. If you were injured in a car crash with a distracted driver, you want to find a lawyer who has had success with these kinds of cases. You need someone who knows the relevant laws and has experience going to court. While most claims are settled out of court, sometimes it is necessary to go to court and insurance companies may be more likely to settle if the attorney on the other side is ready for court.
We are Prepared to Provide Legal Help. Call Today
The attorneys with Pfeifer, Morgan & Stesiak not only have extensive knowledge and negotiating experience. They also have a proven track record of success. Our attorneys have recovered millions in compensation on behalf of our clients.
We do not charge you anything up front and only get paid when you do. We also offer a free initial consultation where you can decide if our firm is right for you.
Call today to schedule a free evaluation. Phone: (574) 444-0741
