5 Reasons Why You Should Consider Changing Your Personal Injury Attorney

You’ve been injured, are possibly facing mounting medical bills, lost wages, and are dealing with an insurance company. You hired a personal injury attorney to guide you through this process and fight for the compensation you deserve. But what if that relationship isn’t working? What if you’re feeling ignored, confused, or even doubtful about your attorney’s commitment to your case? It might be time to consider a change. In the US, there are over 164,000 personal injury lawyers to choose from, and around 60,000 law firms. 

While it’s a decision that shouldn’t be taken lightly, sometimes switching attorneys is the best course of action. Here are five compelling reasons why a proactive attorney like Paul Powell, from Powell and Pisman Injury Lawyers in Chicago, will be investigating the accident, gathering evidence, negotiating with the insurance company, and preparing for trial if necessary.

1. Lack of Communication and Responsiveness From Personal Injury Attorneys

One of the most common complaints clients have about their personal injury attorneys is a lack of communication. In fact, in recent surveys, poor communication was cited as a reason for dissatisfaction with attorneys for 60% of participants. Are your calls and emails going unanswered for days or even weeks? Do you feel like you’re constantly chasing updates instead of receiving them proactively? This is a major red flag. Your attorney should be readily available to answer your questions, explain the legal process, and keep you informed about the progress of your case. A breakdown in communication can create unnecessary stress and erode your trust in your legal representation. Clear communication is a cornerstone for a successful client relationship.

2. Lack of Progress or Perceived Inaction in Personal Injury Case

Personal injury cases can take time, but you should still see consistent progress. Does it feel like your case has stalled? Are deadlines being missed? Are you constantly being told “we’re working on it” without any tangible evidence of activity? If you feel your attorney isn’t actively pursuing your case, it’s a valid reason for concern. 

3. Disagreement on Strategy or Settlement for your Personal Injury Case

You and your personal injury attorney should be on the same page regarding the strategy for your case. Do you feel pressured to accept a settlement offer that you believe is too low? Does your attorney seem unwilling to go to trial, even if it’s in your best interest? However, keep in mind that 95% of cases usually settle before trial. While your attorney provides expert advice, the ultimate decision on how to proceed rests with you. If you have fundamental disagreements about the direction of your case, and your personal injury attorney is unwilling to listen to your concerns, it’s a sign that a change may be needed.

4. Lack of Trust or Confidence in Your Personal Injury Attorney

The attorney-client relationship is built on trust. If you’ve lost confidence in your attorney’s abilities, ethics, or commitment to your case, it’s difficult, if not impossible, to move forward effectively. This lack of trust can stem from various issues, such as discovering your personal injury lawyer is not a specialist in personal injury, feeling like your case isn’t a priority, or even personality clashes. You need to feel confident that your personal injury attorney is fighting for your best interests.

5. Lack of Specialized Personal Injury Law Experience

Personal injury law is a broad field, encompassing various types of accidents and injuries. While many personal injury attorneys may handle general personal injury cases, some specialize in specific areas, such as car accidents, medical malpractice, or product liability. In fact, 52% of personal injury claims are for car accidents, meaning a large number of law firms will be more experienced in these cases. If your case is particularly complex or involves a specialized area of law, you may benefit from an attorney with specific experience in that area. 

Choosing the right personal injury attorney is crucial. You’re entrusting them with your future and your financial well-being. If you’re experiencing any of the issues listed above, don’t hesitate to explore your options.