When to Switch to a New Attorney

When to Switch to a New Attorney

You have done your research, met with some attorneys specializing in handling situations involving your concerns, chosen the attorney you felt the most comfortable with and had confidence in, and your particular case is well on its way to being decided. Without intending there to be problems with your attorney, several issues have surfaced and it may be time to switch to a new attorney.  Changing attorneys during a case can and does happen. Here are some of the reasons why:

1. Lack of prompt and meaningful communication is probably the most frequent cause for concern. Of course, attorneys are busy with cases other than yours, but he or she should still provide answers and feedback to your questions and concerns within a reasonable period of time. At the very least, another professional from your attorney’s office such as a paralegal should be keeping you informed on a regular Thanks to modern technology e-mails and texts are a big help in keeping communication lines open. However, if you are considerate of your attorney’s time by not overdoing requests for information and updates and there is an ongoing lack of communication, there is the reason for concern.
2. Frequent delays both in gathering required information and paperwork, filling out and filing needed forms, and seemingly unnecessary continuances for your case could be a sign your attorney has taken on too big a workload, has pressing personal problems, or is just not experienced enough to handle your particular concerns.
3. In the beginning, you and your attorney seemed to be compatible and formed a pleasant working arrangement. This dynamic appears to be changing as you no longer feel the same respect or have confidence in how he or she is handling your case. Personalities seem to clash on both sides. If the feeling of dislike or distrust persists and increases, it is likely time to switch attorneys.
4. The cost of litigation is going way over what was initially indicated. You might feel he or she keeps adding legal maneuvers that are unnecessary in order to increase the fees. Changing attorneys mid-stream can be costly so be sure to factor this in before making a change. You also want to check the usual procedures required to process your case to be sure the attorney is not overdoing things. Sometimes a case simply takes a lot more work than anticipated, and extra efforts such as court hearings, depositions, and using other professionals like forensic accountants, child psychiatrists, and/or private detectives increase the legal fees. However, refusing to send a detailed bill could be a warning sign of trouble.
5. If your attorney misses a court hearing more than once, forgets important paperwork, loses information you have given him or her, doesn’t remember what you have said, and shows signs of extreme forgetfulness or lack of caring there is cause for concern. Everybody has “bad days,” but this should not become a regular pattern.

While switching an attorney during a case can be done, it is best to be sure this is truly necessary. Take time to think about the problem(s) through carefully, documenting your issues as they arise. Make an appointment to talk with your attorney and share your concerns as often a misunderstanding can be worked out. Time wise and financially it is usually best to keep the attorney you have though switching to a new attorney is possible when needed.

At Gisondo Law our clients are very important, and we take special care to ensure each client, and their case is handled promptly and appropriately. Attorney Gisondo offers a free, in-office, initial consultation where he will meet personally with prospective clients to give them a chance to ask questions and learn how their case will be handled. If you would like to know more about the way Gisondo Law can help with your Family Law legal concern call 561-530-4568 to make an appointment. Office hours are Monday through Friday 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM and, for new clients, Saturday from 8:30 AM to 1:00 PM.