how to fire a lawyer in a courteous manner

How do I Fire my Lawyer?

When you're ready to sever the relationship with your old lawyer, send a certified or registered letter that clearly states you are terminating the relationship, and that the lawyer is to cease working on any pending matters. Don't get into details …

When to fire a lawyer for excessive legal fees?

Feb 26, 2021 · If you do decide to fire your lawyer, you should do so in writing. Your letter should set forth and document any conduct or reasons supporting your decision. It should also give instruction as to where he or she needs to send your file.

How to fire an attorney in a verbal exchange?

Jan 01, 2022 · If you fire your lawyer just before a hearing or trial, you’ll most likely need to file a “motion for continuance.”. A motion for continuance asks the judge to change the date of the court hearing or trial to a later date so you have time to hire a new attorney. The judge doesn’t have to grant your motion.

Can I Fire my attorney without notice?

Sep 04, 2019 · If you have decided to fire your attorney, there are steps you should take. First, you should hire a new attorney, especially if you are in the middle of a court case. Ask your new attorney to get files from the previous attorney and to handle notification of the Court for ongoing court cases. Let the new attorney know your progress on the firing.

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Community Q&A

I have a friend who is currently incarcerated. His wife hired his attorney. She wants to fire the attorney but my friend wishes to keep him. Does his wife have the right to do this?

Tips

Often, problems leading to the firing of an attorney are primarily issues with communication. Before you fire your attorney, ask yourself: Is there any other way this problem could be resolved that might cost me less time and money?

About This Article

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Use our sample lawyer termination letter to end your attorney-client relationship

An attorney-client relationship is a bit like a marriage—sometimes there are irreconcilable differences. Find out whether you have the right to fire your attorney, when you should fire your attorney, and how you should fire your attorney.

When should you terminate an attorney-client relationship?

Deciding whether to terminate an attorney-client relationship is a personal decision. Sometimes the lawyer isn’t a good fit and you’re better off moving on. Other times, the attorney-client relationship isn’t perfect but it’s strong enough to get the job done.

Alternatives to terminating the lawyer-client relationship

Often, a polite conversation with your lawyer can clear up any issues between the two of you. Remember, your lawyer has an incentive to keep you (a paying customer) happy. In some cases, simply making your attorney aware that there’s an issue is all it takes to resolve the problem.

Tips on how to write a lawyer termination letter

If all else fails and you need to fire your attorney, you’ll need to draft a termination letter. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

Sample lawyer termination letter

Below you’ll find a sample of a termination letter. Keep in mind that this is a generic letter intended to give you some idea of how to write a termination letter. The form and contents of this letter won’t be applicable to every case.

Should I file a complaint?

If you believe your lawyer engaged in unethical conduct, you can file a complaint with your state bar association. The state bar association will investigate the complaint and take disciplinary action against the attorney if appropriate.

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Before You Fire Your Attorney

Before you take the step of firing your attorney, consider why you are taking this action. Cutting off a relationship with a trusted business advisor can have negative consequences for you and your business.

Some Reasons to Fire an Attorney

If the attorney isn't acting in a professional or ethical manner you should fire them. Your attorney should not ask you to do things or telling you they are going to do things that you feel are not ethical. You shouldn't work with a person who does not act in a noble or straightforward manner.

The Process

If you have decided to fire your attorney, there are steps you should take. First, you should hire a new attorney, especially if you are in the middle of a court case. Ask your new attorney to get files from the previous attorney and to handle notification of the Court for ongoing court cases. Let the new attorney know your progress on the firing.