Q: With my drug case going over a year without a motion of discovery being filed, knowing nothing more the from the start.
How does one go about dismissing a lawyer?
A:
You may dismiss your lawyer, at will. This means at any time, for any reason. You are under no obligation to continue his/her employ, especially if you are dissatisfied. Send a certified or registered letter stating that you are terminating the relationship, and that the lawyer is to stop working on any matters pertaining to your case. Your letter should address attorney’s fees. If any fees were paid in advance and the work hasn't been done, ask for a refund of the fees and an itemized bill listing all pending fees.
As soon as possible, speak to and meet with another attorney and explain your situation; this may minimize any consequence of delay. Make the new attorney aware. The new attorney will be responsible for notifying the court of the change in representation. You may also ask your new attorney to handle the transfer of files. Be sure to set a deadline for handing over the files, and detail how you want to receive them. The files belong to the client, not the attorney.
Time is of the essence. Be sure to consult and hire a criminal defense attorney who will offer you transparent and professional representation.
Tim Akpinar agrees with this answer
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