Contacting a lawyer when you’re dealing with the aftermath of a birth injury is often an extremely difficult and emotional decision. If you’re like most people, you’ve never needed a lawyer for an injury claim before, and starting the legal process may be intimidating and stressful.
Bringing your case to a law firm is a big step towards needed compensation, but what happens if you don’t click with your lawyer or feel that they aren’t taking your case seriously? Unfortunately, this is more common than you might think, and it often leads to people wondering if they’re allowed to change lawyers mid-case.
If you’re thinking about changing lawyers, here’s what you need to know.
You Are Allowed to Change Lawyers in the Middle of a Claim
In Illinois, as in every other state, you have the right to change your attorney at any time during your birth injury claim. This right is fundamental to ensuring that you have the best possible representation throughout this challenging period.
Whether you are seeking a more experienced law firm, one that specializes in handling birth injury cases, or just one with whom you communicate better, the decision to switch legal representation is yours to make.
What Is the Process for Changing Lawyers?
Changing lawyers during a birth injury claim involves several steps, but a reputable law firm can guide you through the process smoothly.
Here’s a general outline of what to expect:
- Find a New Attorney: Before making any changes, find a new attorney who is willing to take on your case. It’s important to research and choose a firm with extensive experience in birth injury claims in Illinois. This ensures they have the resources and experience to handle your specific needs.
- Notify Your Current Attorney: Once you have secured new representation, you must inform your current attorney of your decision to change lawyers. This can be done in writing, and your new attorney can assist with this step to ensure it’s handled correctly and professionally.
- Transfer of Documents: Your current attorney is obligated to provide your new attorney with all the documents related to your case. This transition process is to ensure your case continues without unnecessary delay.
- Handling of Fees: Concerns about legal fees are common when changing attorneys. Typically, your new attorney will work out an arrangement with your previous attorney regarding the division of fees, including contingency fees, based on the work each has contributed.
When Should You Change Lawyers?
Deciding to change lawyers mid-claim isn’t something most people take lightly, even if they aren’t 100% happy or satisfied with their current legal representation. However, it can sometimes be the best move you can make after deciding to take legal action for your birth injury case.
Here are a few important reasons to change lawyers in the middle of a claim:
- Poor Communication: If your current lawyer does not keep you informed about the progress of your case, fails to respond to your questions in a timely manner, or doesn’t communicate things to you clearly, these are signs that your needs are not being adequately met. Effective communication is essential in any legal matter, and even more so in cases as sensitive and complex as birth injury claims.
- Lack of Experience: Birth injury cases require deep knowledge of both the medical and legal fields, and your lawyer should have a proven track record of successfully handling such cases. If you discover that your current representation lacks this experience or seems overwhelmed by the complexities of your case, finding a lawyer with the right background is essential.
- Disagreement Over Legal Strategy: Legal strategies can vary widely, and it’s important that your lawyer’s approach matches your goals and comfort level. If your lawyer is pushing for a quick settlement but you’re willing to go to trial to achieve a more favorable outcome, or if you feel that your case is not being given the attention and aggression it warrants, it may be a good idea to switch lawyers.
- Questionable Ethics: A lack of trust in your lawyer’s integrity is a clear indicator that a change is necessary. Trust is the foundation of the attorney-client relationship. If you have any doubts about your lawyer’s ethics, such as concerns about honesty, confidentiality, or conflicts of interest, it’s important to act on those concerns as soon as possible.
- Lack of Compassion and Empathy: If your lawyer is not providing the level of support and compassion you need during this challenging time, considering a change in representation might be beneficial. Navigating a birth injury claim can be emotionally taxing, and having a supportive, understanding legal team can make a significant difference in your experience and case outcome.
Our Chicago Birth Injury Lawyers Are Here for You
At Beam Legal Team, we understand that the journey through a birth injury claim is deeply personal and challenging. Our Chicago birth injury lawyers believe that every family deserves the highest level of legal representation that’s tailored to their unique circumstances and needs.
Whether you’re considering changing lawyers in the middle of your birth injury claim, or if you’re seeking an initial consultation after your baby was harmed, our team is here to provide the experienced guidance and compassionate support you deserve. Contact us today for a free consultation.