If you are unsatisfied with your lawyer’s performance, you may fire him or her at any time. You may even switch lawyers in the middle of your workers’ compensation case. However, changing lawyers during litigation often comes with consequences, therefore it is advisable to consider both the benefits and the disadvantages of switching lawyers before doing so. The Philadelphia workers’ compensation lawyers at Larry Pitt & Associates, P.C. are here to help you answer this, and any other questions you have regarding your case.
Reasons to Change Workers’ Compensation Lawyers
There are many reasons why a client would want to change his or her workers’ compensation lawyer. What seemed like a good fit in the beginning may prove to be an undesirable arrangement, typically because the lawyer is not living up to the client’s expectations.
It is important to keep in mind that the law can be extremely complex and difficult to understand for those without legal training. Your lawyer may have a specific legal strategy of which you are not aware. However, there are certainly reasons to consider replacing your lawyer after your case is underway, including if the lawyer:
- Is rude or unkind – You should feel comfortable with your attorney. If he or she is rude or unkind, you may want to switch to someone with whom you have a better rapport.
- Behaves unprofessionally – Attorneys are bound by rules of professional conduct. If your lawyer behaves unprofessionally or unethically, it may be time to move on.
- Lacks experience in the field – You deserve to have an attorney working on your case who has experience in workers’ compensation. If your lawyer is unfamiliar with the nuances of workers’ compensation law, you may want to hire someone who has a better chance of obtaining a successful outcome for you.
- Does not return your calls or keep you updated about your case – You should be regularly updated and informed about your case. If your attorney does not return your calls, answer your questions, or keep you up to date on your case, it may be time to make the switch.
Considerations Prior to Switching
Although you are free to fire your lawyer at will, it is important to be aware of the potential consequences for doing so. For example, most workers’ compensation lawyers work on a contingency fee basis, meaning they collect a certain percentage of your award only if you win your case. If another attorney works on your case, he or she must split that fee with the initial attorney – something some lawyers are reluctant to do.
Also, some attorneys may consider it a “red flag” that you fired your previous attorney and may therefore be unwilling to take on your case. Finally, switching lawyers in the middle of your claim may lead to delays as the new lawyer will need time to get up to speed on the case. Be sure to allow your new attorney time to prepare for any upcoming hearings and deadlines.
Switching lawyers may or may not be in your best interest, depending on the circumstances of your case. Consider scheduling a consultation with a new lawyer to discuss your concerns prior to firing your current one.
Philadelphia Workers’ Compensation Attorneys at Larry Pitt & Associates, P.C. Put Clients First
At Larry Pitt & Associates, P.C., we have been representing workers for over 40 years. Our Philadelphia workers’ compensation attorneys are dedicated to providing professional, comprehensive legal representation to workers in Philadelphia and throughout Pennsylvania. For a free consultation, complete our online contact form or call us at 888-PITT-LAW.
We proudly represent injured workers in Berks County, Bucks County, Chester County, Delaware County, Montgomery County, Philadelphia County, and throughout Pennsylvania, including those in the communities of Abington, Ambler, Ardmore, Bala Cynwyd, Bensalem, Clifton Heights, Crum Lynne, Darby, Downingtown, Doylestown, Drexel Hill, Essington, Folcroft, Glenolden, Haverford, Havertown, Holmes, Kutztown, Lansdowne, Media, Merion Station, Morton, Narberth, Norristown, Norwood, Philadelphia, Prospect Park, Quakertown, Reading, Roxborough, Sharon Hill, Upper Darby, West Chester, and Wynnewood.
