How to know when to fire your lawyer

Is it time for him to go?

While an attorney would like you to believe otherwise, lawyers are actually a dime a dozen and can be replaced like paper plates when they no longer serve their purpose. Not sure if it's time to dump your attorney? Read this article to find out more.

Things You'll Need

• a Lawyer
• Communication skills

Instructions

1. If your attorney is no longer working in your best interest, it may be time to sever the professional relationship and move on. Don't ever forget that a lawyer works for you, and you have the fight to fire an attorney at any time. Don't allow them to make you think otherwise. You are in charge.

2. Your attorney should be ready, willing and able to answer all of your questions without brushing you off. If you feel that you're getting the brush off, you need to give it back- permanently. Your lawyer should be just as helpful to you before you paid him as after you pay him.

3. If you find your attorney is even remotely disrespectful towards you, either by raising their voice, or speaking in a condescending tone, move on. You are a paying customer, and don't deserve this type of poor treatment.

4. If your attorney does not respond to your phone messages or emails in a reasonable period of time, they may not be the right lawyer for you. A good attorney will be punctual in all dealings with you, even if the dealing does not involve handing over a big retainer check. Their level of attentiveness should be maintained throughout your dealings.

5. If you feel like you have to work hard to convince your lawyer, you have the wrong lawyer. Your attorney has an ethical obligation to represent your best interests, not their own. Sometimes, it may be a bit more work for them to represent your interests fairly. If your lawyer refuses to do what is necessary for your case, get rid of them- and fast.

6. Depending on your situation, you may find it necessary or helpful to complain to your local State Bar Association. The State Bar is the organization that regulates attorneys and their conduct. This will help ensure that your lawyer improves their behavior, in the likely event that you firing them didn't show them that their behavior is not acceptable.

Tips & Warnings

• Read any retainer agreements and contracts carefully prior to signing.

• Don't be afraid to ask questions of your attorney.

• Question everything; think for yourself.