Can I Change Attorneys In Philadelphia?

If you or a loved one is injured due to the negligence of another, you may need to seek out a personal injury attorney. Unfortunately, most people have no idea what they should be looking for in order to find the right lawyer. They may decide to hire the first attorney they talk to and only later realize they made a big mistake. However, it is important to understand that you have the right to change your attorney.

If you are asking yourself if you can change your attorney, then there is a good chance you already know the answer. You deserve to have an advocate to fight for you, to represent your best interests, and to maintain an open channel of communication so you know what is going on in your case. Talk to experienced personal injury attorneys who will work for you so you can get the full compensation you deserve.

When is it Okay to Change Your Personal Injury Attorney

Any lawyer performs a number of functions for their client, including acting as an advisor, advocate, negotiator, and evaluator. Any lawyer who is licensed by the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania is also required to abide by certain rules and professional ethics.

“As advisor, a lawyer provides a client with an informed understanding of the client’s legal rights and obligations and explains their practical implications. As advocate, a lawyer zealously asserts the client’s position under the rules of the adversary system. As negotiator, a lawyer seeks a result advantageous to the client but consistent with requirements of honest dealings with others. As an evaluator, a lawyer acts by examining a client’s legal affairs and reporting about them to the client or to others.” See Rules of Professional Conduct § 81.1

Even though lawsuits may take longer than you’d expect, your attorney is still required to keep you informed of any developments or changes in your case. They are also supposed to let you know about any settlement offers. As the client, you alone have the power to accept or decline a settlement offer. This is why it is important for your attorney to keep in regular contact with you, so you can make an informed decision of whether or not a settlement offer is right for you.

If your attorney is not fulfilling their obligations to you, then you may want to consider speaking with another attorney about changing your representation. You don’t have to stick with an attorney who doesn’t take your case seriously just because you signed a contract with them. Your attorney should be working for you, not the other way around.

You may have signed a contingent fee agreement with your attorney, but that does not mean you are stuck with inadequate legal representation. Remember that your lawsuit and the amount of damages your receive may be in the hands of your lawyer. After you talk to your new attorney, they will be able to notify your prior lawyer that you are changing representation. Your new attorney will be able to ensure a smooth transition with the court so your case can move forward and you can focus on recovery.

Find the Personal Injury Attorney Who Will Work For You

If you or a loved one has been injured in an accident, the law firm of Gilman & Bedigian may be able to help. Our attorneys want the best for our clients, and will make sure our clients know we are here for them. We will answer your questions, keep you informed of any developments, and help to make sure you get the compensation you deserve. Please do not hesitate to contact us today for a free consultation.