This can be a tough call – should I change my divorce lawyer?
Sometimes it makes sense to get a new perspective or change things up. So on occasion, firing your divorce lawyer and hiring a new one (or representing yourself) is the way to go.
I think the most common reason for switching lawyers is lack of communication. Sometimes this means phone calls and emails aren’t returned for days. Other times, it means that the client and lawyer are not in “sync.” This could be that the client has unrealistic expectations, the attorney does not provide satisfactory explanations or there is simply a personality clash.
Next up – results. While the client is ultimately the boss, there are times when the lawyer is uncomfortable with or cannot possibly achieve the client’s goals. After all, the lawyer must act within the confines of ethical rules and established law. When a client takes an extreme position, the lawyer may ask the judge to allow the attorney to withdraw their representation.
Finally – expense. When a lot of money has been spent with no corresponding results, a client may understandably get irritated. Now there could be legitimate reasons for this that are beyond your lawyer’s control like an overcrowded court docket, the discovery process and the complexity of the case. On the other hand, the case might not have been given the attention it deserves.
Divorce litigation can be contentious and emotional.
Discuss matters with your lawyer before changing your divorce lawyer. Talk it out. This may improve relations.
Or it might be time to part ways.