Can I switch attorneys in a personal injury case?
Personal Injury - September 12, 2025
Like doctors, we expect all lawyers to know what they’re doing and serve our best interests. Unfortunately, some attorneys aren’t as skilled in certain kinds of lawsuits, and you may wonder, “Can I switch attorneys in a personal injury case?” While it doesn’t happen often, you do have the option to move to another law firm in the middle of a case.
There are some important things you need to know before you switch law firms. Below, a Gurnee personal injury attorney from Horwitz, Horwitz & Associates describes how to switch personal injury lawyers for a better outcome.
What are some reasons I might need to switch personal injury attorneys in the middle of a case?
Generally, you only make the change when you feel staying with your current attorney is no longer in your best interest. It can be as simple as not feeling you’re getting the attention your case deserves. Some common situations that could prompt you to change lawyers in the middle of your claim include:
- Your lawyer isn’t experienced in handling cases like yours.
- Your attorney violates the Illinois Bar Association’s code of ethics.
- Your lawyer doesn’t communicate with you on a regular basis, and you can’t get answers.
- Your attorney doesn’t make you feel respected or valued as a client.
- Your lawyer’s personality clashes with yours, so you aren’t comfortable working with them.
- Your attorney has a conflict of interest in your case.
- Your lawyer pushes you to accept a settlement much lower than you feel you deserve.
As long as you are sure about your new choice of personal injury lawyer, it can be advantageous for your case to change law firms. Ideally, you want a legal professional who works to collect as much compensation as possible without taking unnecessary risks or incurring unnecessary costs. The goal should be to present a powerful case and increase your settlement value in the least amount of time required.
How do I change lawyers in the middle of a case?
If you’re considering this step, you should discuss the possibility of changing law firms with anyone else involved in the case, such as family members. Next, ask your attorney for a meeting so you can sit down and present your honest concerns and opinions about their work to date. In many cases, this can clear things up and reset everyone’s expectations.
You can choose a new personal injury attorney by searching the Internet or asking friends and family for recommendations. Review your candidates’ websites and assess their commitment to clients and case results. Take advantage of free case reviews to discuss where your case stands.
Keep in mind that your new lawyer will need time to get up to speed on your case and develop their approach. If you are still negotiating with an insurance company and haven’t filed the paperwork for your lawsuit, stay aware of the Illinois statute of limitations, which only allows two years in most situations. If you are suing a government agency, you may have even less time.
Is there a cost to changing lawyers in the middle of a case?
Yes, there can be a cost for switching attorneys in personal injury cases. Most personal injury law firms work on a contingency basis, taking some of your settlement to pay their fees. If you leave before the case is finalized, your former attorney may assert a lien for their work. While they can request payment for reasonable costs, they cannot unreasonably withhold your case file or disrupt your transition to new representation.
When you go to your first meeting with your personal injury law firm, you’ll sign a new personal injury payment agreement for the costs of servicing your case. This includes their fees and expenses for hiring experts, investigating details, and preparing exhibits for court. With contingency plans, you only pay your lawyer after they win your case. after they win your personal injury claim
Let us be your top choice for your case
At Horwitz, Horwitz & Associates, we pride ourselves on over 100 years of helping injury victims in need. We are ready to listen to your concerns during a free consultation, and we never push you to accept a settlement that is less than what you need. Schedule a free consultation online or call (800) 985-1819 today to speak to a Gurnee personal injury attorney.
