Changing Solicitors: Can I Switch?
Unhappy with your current personal injury solicitor? You have the legal right to switch to a better firm without losing money.
Many people believe that once they have signed a "No Win No Fee" agreement, they are trapped with that solicitor until the case ends. This is not true. If you feel your case is being neglected, mishandled, or moving too slowly, you can transfer your file to a new firm.
Why do people switch solicitors?
Personal injury claims can take months or years. You need a legal team you can trust. Common reasons clients transfer their claims to our panel include:
- Lack of Communication: Your solicitor never returns calls or emails.
- Constant Delays: Nothing seems to happen for months at a time.
- Staff Turnover: Your case keeps getting passed to different junior staff.
- Pressure to Settle: You feel pushed to accept a low offer just to close the file.
- Lack of Expertise: Your solicitor doesn't seem to understand the complexity of your injury.
Will switching cost me money?
The Short Answer: No.
You will not have to pay your old solicitor upfront. When you switch, your new solicitor will usually sign an "Undertaking". This is a promise to pay your old solicitor's costs at the end of the case, but only if the claim wins. This cost is recovered from the insurance company, not your pocket.
How to switch solicitors: The Process
Moving your claim is much easier than you think. You do not need to have an awkward confrontation with your current lawyer.
Will switching delay my claim?
Actually, switching often speeds up the claim. If your current solicitor is sitting on the file, moving it to a proactive, specialist firm will get things moving again.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I switch if I have a court date?
What if I was assigned a solicitor by my insurance?
Don't settle for poor service
You only get one chance to claim compensation. Make sure you have the best team fighting for you.