How do you go about getting a new attorney for a PIP car accident? Can you switch attorneys half way through the process if you

Attorney answers (4)

1. Licensed in FL

   

   Jonathan Groff

   Miami Car / Auto Accident Lawyer

   Contributor Level 11

   8

   Lawyers agree

   Answered August 24, 2012 14:13. I assume you mean a motor vehicle personal injury claim/suit where you are receiving medical benefits from PIP? You can always switch lawyers, but your first lawyer may be entitled to a lien out of the recovery for the time and value he/she put into the case. That is why on smaller cases it can be hard to find a new lawyer mid case. I don’t have enough facts to know what the issues are or if the compensation value of the claim make it possible to get a new lawyer however. I recommend you meet with the lawyer, go over all your concerns. If you are not comfortable in your representation, you should at least consult with other lawyers. As I always say to people asking about lawyers, do not hire a lawyer based on a slick TV commercial. A fancy commercial has often has little to do with quality representation. People need a quality lawyer, not a volume lawyer. Good luck.

   This answer is a public service and not an attempt to solicit business. Jonathan Groff’s practice is devoted to... moreThis answer is a public service and not an attempt to solicit business. Jonathan Groff’s practice is devoted to all aspects of personal injury litigation throughout Florida. He has a “10.0 Superb” rating from AVVO and is rated “AV Preeminent” by Martindale-Hubbell. However, this reply should NOT be considered a legal opinion of your case / inquiry. At this time I do not have sufficient factual/legal documentation to give a complete answer to your question and there may be more to the issues you raise then I have set out in my brief reply. Further, unless your matter concerns Florida law, I am not licensed to practice or give specific legal advice in your state. less

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2. Licensed in FL

   

   Jose Carrillo

   Miami Car / Auto Accident Lawyer

   Contributor Level 9

   4

   Lawyers agree

   Answered August 25, 2012 08:02. You absolutely have the right to hire or fire any lawyer as you choose.
   
   I would, however, ask you to consider why you are looking to switch attorneys. The process can take some time. While i agree with most of what has been posted, i suggest that you meet with your current attorney and discuss your concerns. You may find that the case is being handled properly. Otherwise, make sure you interview other attorneys so that you don't repeat any mistake.
   
   If you find that there have been undue delays or a lack of diligence, you may be able to use that in your favor for having a "new" attorney attempt to "waive his/her (initial attorney's) lien.

   This is not to be considered as legal advise. Based on the "short" amount of information provided in these... moreThis is not to be considered as legal advise. Based on the "short" amount of information provided in these settings, the above are simply examples of practical, non-specific, thoughts. less

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3. 

   Stephen BoydPro

   Williamsville Personal Injury Lawyer

   Contributor Level 10

   

   EmailVisit website

   4

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   Answered August 24, 2012 14:06. In most states you have the right to change attorneys at any time in the process. Your outgoing attorney will likely be entitled to a fee for the work done to date. If this was a contingent fee case, the outgoing attorney will either have a lien on the legal fee (and thus share it with the new attorney), or could bill you hourly for the work done. See a local attorney to ask for the rules in your area.

   I am admitted to practice in New York State. I am not admitted in any other states.

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4. 

   Steven Sweat

   Beverly Hills Car / Auto Accident Lawyer

   Contributor Level 19

   4

   Lawyers agree

   Answered August 24, 2012 14:34. AVVO is a great resource. Use the "Find a Lawyer" feature.

   Nothing in this communication should be construed as creating an attorney client relationship. This is for... moreNothing in this communication should be construed as creating an attorney client relationship. This is for informational purposes only. Attorney will take no action on your behalf unless and until a written retainer agreement is signed. There are strict time deadlines on filing claims and, as such, you are advised to consult with and retain an attorney immediately to file such claims timely or you will lose any right to recovery. less

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