Overview of replacing your lawyer

The decision to replace your lawyer is not one you should make lightly. There are times, the night before a tribunal hearing, for example, when it may cause more problems than it would solve. Ultimately, however, you are responsible for your own affairs and if you feel your lawyer is not up to scratch, then you are perfectly within your rights to find a replacement. Be certain, however, that your lawyer is at fault and it is not just that they are just not telling you what you want to hear. Lawyers can only offer advice, they can’t work miracles.

Why change?

There are various reasons why you may feel dissatisfied. Perhaps your lawyer is taking a long time to return your calls, or you feel they’re making mistakes with your file. Perhaps you’ve been promised certain documents and they’re not ready? Whatever the reason, you are best to tell your lawyer your concerns (or write to them) before taking action. Try to be specific in your complaints as this will help the lawyer alter their behaviour. If you tell your lawyer what you think the problem is, then you are giving them an opportunity to change their behaviour, which will be a lot easier for you than starting afresh with a new lawyer.

What to do

If that doesn’t resolve matters, then the sooner you act the better. That way, your new lawyer will have more time to get to grips with the issue at hand.

Let your lawyer know you want to change. Don’t just avoid contact with them. It might be a good idea to find a new lawyer before you let the previous one go, then they can forward all your documents immediately and you will minimise delay. Make sure you give your new lawyer your previous lawyer’s contact details.

Ends