Should You Switch Attorneys During a Family Law Case?
Choosing the right attorney is crucial when navigating a family law case. If you are unhappy with your legal representation and feel that a switch is necessary, you could potentially turn your case around and improve your chances of obtaining a favorable outcome. Finding a new legal team may seem daunting, but it could be incredibly beneficial for your future.
Assessing Your Current Attorney-Client Relationship
When deciding if it would be best to switch attorneys during your family law case, it is essential to assess your current attorney-client relationship honestly. Your attorney may be experienced in handling these cases, but if they do not align with your goals and expectations, they might not be the right fit for you.
These are some other important factors to consider:
- How well your attorney communicates with you
- Your attorney’s level of responsiveness
- Whether or not you trust your attorney
- Overall compatibility
Identifying Dissatisfaction and Concerns
There are many reasons why clients may be dissatisfied with their attorney. Some of the most common reasons why clients often begin considering a change in representation include:
- Their attorney rarely returns phone calls or responds to emails.
- Their attorney does not provide updates regarding the progress of their case.
- Their attorney fails to follow through on promises and does not meet expectations.
- They frequently clash with their attorney, resulting in a breakdown in trust and communication.
- Their attorney is not professional and is often late for court or has to reschedule appointments.
Make a list of your own concerns regarding your attorney’s behavior and services. Evaluating this list could help you make your decision.
Discussing Concerns with Your Attorney
Before you make any decisions regarding a change in representation, discuss your concerns with your current attorney. Give them an opportunity to rectify any misunderstandings or issues by engaging in clear and transparent communication. It is possible you could resolve the problems you are having. If this discussion fails to yield results, you can feel confident in your decision to proceed with switching attorneys.
Evaluate the Pros and Cons
Although changing attorneys is not an ideal situation to be in, given the costs and delays associated with it, it could ultimately benefit you. Family law cases are deeply personal, and the outcome could impact your life for many years to come, so it is essential to consider the advantages.
You could find a better legal fit, have confidence in your new attorney, and take a fresh approach to your case. You may also enjoy better communication with a new lawyer, making what is an inherently stressful process a lot easier on you.
The Process of Switching Attorneys
If you decide to switch attorneys, thoroughly review the terms of your current retainer agreement before you make any moves. Pay particularly close attention to any provisions regarding termination.
When terminating your relationship with your current attorney, be sure to do so in writing and obtain your case file. You will need this and any other relevant case information to smoothly transition to a new attorney. Your new attorney will also need you to notify them of any upcoming deadlines or court dates.
We Provide Compassionate and Skilled Legal Counsel
Switching attorneys during a family law case is a significant decision and should be done carefully. By evaluating the quality of your current attorney-client relationship, identifying concerns, and weighing the pros and cons, you can make an informed choice.
If you are looking to make a change in representation, the Mattis Law, A.P.C. family law team in San Diego is ready to assist you. From 2017-2020, head attorney Amelia Mattis was selected for the Top 10 Family Law Attorneys in California award by the American Institute of Family Law Attorneys.
Call us at (858) 328-4400 to schedule a free consultation and learn more about how we can help.