Can I Change My Accident Lawyer?

Can I Change My Accident Lawyer?

Can I Change My Accident Lawyer?

If you are involved in an accident, a Sacramento car accident lawyer can help you seek compensatory damages. However, all lawyers are not equal. One lawyer may help you reach a settlement quickly, while another may fail to do so.

This is why California laws allow you to change your lawyer if you are dissatisfied with the way your case is being handled. You can make the switch any time during the case, although you should do it sooner than later. Here is a look at some reasons you may want to change your lawyer, and how to go about it.

Reasons to Change Your Attorney

There are many reasons you may want to switch to a different lawyer for your case. Some of the most common reasons include:

Lack of Communication

Your ultimate aim is to ensure a positive outcome for your case. And you want your lawyer to do their best in securing this outcome. If the lawyer fails to communicate with you and keep you informed of the developments, you may want to look for a different law firm. Or maybe they’re not helping you deal with the insurance company after your accident.

Lack of Confidence

It is important to do your homework before hiring a lawyer for your car accident case. If you feel like your lawyer is not competent enough to handle your case, you may feel compelled to seek an alternative.

Lack of Professionalism

You expect a law firm to treat you with respect, dignity, and consideration as a client. Not all law firms are able to fulfill these basic expectations. A lack of professionalism on your lawyer’s part may also prompt you to change your legal counsel.

How to Change Your Attorney

A change of attorney in an accident claim can take some time. This is particularly so because you may have legal obligations towards your previous attorney. These include calculating the legal fees you owe the lawyer, especially where contingency fee arrangements are involved.

You will typically need a California Substitution of Attorney Form MC-050 when making the switch. In addition, you must also notify the other party of the substitution under the California Code of Civil Procedure Section 285.

Finally, the court must also be notified of the change in writing. This is typically done when your previous attorney requests a withdrawal and your new attorney files for substitution.

Get Reliable Legal Help in Sacramento, CA

If you are dissatisfied with your present legal counsel in a Sacramento crash case, don’t wait. It is generally recommended that you make a substitution sooner than later.

Here at Crowell Law Offices, we can work with you through the substitution process to minimize any delays or hassles. Our lawyers can prepare and submit the substitution form on your behalf. We also strive to seek a fair and quick settlement for your accident claim.

Get in touch with us today to discuss your claim with our lawyers. Call now at 916-303-2800 or fill out the form to request a free consultation.