How do I change my solicitor?
Sometimes working with a lawyer just doesn’t feel like it’s right. Maybe communication has broken down or you aren’t getting the results that you expected. It’s not surprising that you would want to make a change in these situations.
Changing solicitors may seem daunting, and you might worry that it will negatively affect your case. With the right guidance, it’s usually a simple process, and there won’t be any negative impact to your case. You will be in a better position if you make the decision early and get the right representation. You may have lost confidence in the ability of your solicitor to advise you tactically on how to best deal with your dispute. In this post, we will explain what you should consider before making a decision, the steps involved and how to ensure that the transition is seamless without disrupting your legal case.
If you feel that your current solicitor is not meeting your expectations, or addressing your needs, then you should consider changing. The key things you need to trust your solicitor has covered when dealing with your dispute are:
robust representation where your interests are fully and properly protected;
clear and practical advice and guidance on the law and where you stand;
the overall commercial position and how the risks vs rewards of your case stack up;
- the legal costs now and going forwards.
- Legal representation should be based on trust; if that trust isn’t there, switching to a solicitor who better understands your needs can help get you back on track.
- What Are the Common Reasons for Changing Solicitors?
- We deal with many situations where clients have been disappointed by their previous solicitors and need to transfer the case to us. Some of the reasons we’ve found for this are:
Poor communication: If your solicitor is difficult to reach, takes a long time to respond, does not keep you informed about significant developments in your case or ignores your requests, it can be frustrating. If you don’t have an open line of communication with your lawyer, it could be detrimental to the success of your case. Delays could be a sign of inefficiency at the firm or a lack of focus on your case, and both heavily imply that it could be a good idea to move solicitors.
High Fees: Unexpected or high legal fees that aren’t clearly explained can be a major source of dissatisfaction. If your solicitor isn’t transparent about fees or you feel overcharged, this could be a sign it’s time to explore other options.
Mismatch in Expertise: There are a number of solicitors who have a fairly general practice, dispute resolution is a specialist area and you will need an experienced team with strength and depth if you want to get the right result. If your solicitor doesn’t have the necessary expertise, you may not receive the best representation or advice, potentially damaging your case.
- Loss of Confidence: If you’ve lost trust in your solicitor’s ability to handle your case effectively or feel like your concerns aren’t being taken seriously, it’s vital to act quickly to find representation you have confidence in.
- Factors to Consider When Changing Solicitors
- It is usually easier to change solicitors earlier on and the longer you leave it the more difficult it is likely to become, particularly if your case is nearing a critical point, such as a trial or completion, it may be more complicated.
- You will need to check with your current solicitor for any outstanding fees or costs, as this could affect the timing of your switch. You may also have to deal with a ‘lien,’ which is when your current solicitor refuses to give you a copy of the file if they are not paid in full. When choosing legal representation, value for money is the most important factor to consider. Look for a solicitor that offers the right combination between expertise, communication, service. It’s worth investing in quality, to ensure that your case is handled properly, rather than focusing on saving money up front.
- If you handle things properly, changing solicitors can be a relatively simple process. It will cause minimal disruption to your case.
If you are thinking about changing solicitors, we will be happy to have an open discussion and if necessary review relevant documents in order to help you make a decision. We will also guide you to make the transition as seamless as possible. This will usually include arranging the transfer of your case files and informing all relevant parties about the change so your case can continue without delays.
Although switching solicitors close to a court date or important legal deadline is less than ideal, it’s not impossible. Overall, as long as your new solicitor is prepared, the transition can be quick and efficient.
Does It Cost to Change Solicitors?
The cost of changing solicitors can vary depending on your situation. There are usually no fees associated with switching solicitors, such as penalties. However, there are a few costs you should be aware of:
Outstanding Fees: Your current solicitor will require you to settle any unpaid fees before they release your case files. It is best to check your contract to see if there are any extra charges for terminating their services early. There will usually be a fee for understanding the background, and for the solicitor to read in and understand your current situation. Make sure to discuss costs upfront and understand how the new solicitor charges for their services, whether on a fixed-fee basis, an hourly rate, or a no-win-no-fee arrangement.
While changing solicitors may incur some costs, the benefits of working with a solicitor who better suits your needs and provides the level of service you expect often outweigh the expense. It’s also a good idea to discuss potential costs with both your current and new solicitor before making the switch so you know what to expect.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why Would Someone Change Solicitor?
People change solicitors for various reasons, including poor communication, slow progress on their case, high fees, or a lack of trust in their solicitor’s ability. Others may seek a solicitor with more expertise in a particular area of law or want a fresh perspective to ensure they get the best possible outcome.
Final Thoughts
Changing solicitors is a personal decision that can be triggered by any reason, from poor communication to high fees or a lack of expertise. It’s important to choose a lawyer who will meet your needs and expectations, as the outcome of your case will be impacted by your choice.
- If your case involves a commercial, construction or property dispute, and you’re considering a second opinion, or you’ve decided to change solicitors and you want to know where you stand, call Helix Law. We will be happy to discuss your case with you and provide you with the advice and support you need.
