Los Angeles, CA asked in Employment Law, Personal Injury and Workers' Compensation for California

Q: My current atty does not return calls should I look for a new one I was carjacked at work and fired a week later

So it’s a workers comp case wrongful term they want to add and misclassification but attorney. Is not consistent just need advice

3 Lawyer Answers

A: You should send a written request for your lawyer to provide a copy of your client file and set a time for a call or meeting. A lawyer has a duty to communicate with their clients and if he fails to do so, you should have good cause to terminate your lawyer.

Steven M. Chanley
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Answered

A: Selecting an attorney is an important decision, as whomever you engage will hold your legal interests, either as a person or a business, in their hands. It is critical to hire an attorney who is not only competent and trustworthy, but also one who will listen to you to determine the best way of achieving your legal needs. Being responsive and available are also baseline requirements for any attorney worth hiring.

No client should ever stay with an attorney they do not trust or do not believe is meeting their needs.

I note that most plaintiffs’ attorneys who work on a contingency fee basis will include in their engagement agreement terms that related to what will happen if you choose to switch attorneys while a matter is still pending. You should read and be familiar with those provisions.

If you wish to withdraw from the engagement of your current counsel and believe that they are hindering your right to use an attorney of your own choosing, or are otherwise acting in an unfair manner, you should contact the State Bar. The State Bar is, above all, a consumer protection organization that is entrusted with protecting the rights of attorneys’ clients.

You may contact your county’s local Bar Association for a referral to an attorney whose practice concentrates on your area of need.

I wish you the best of luck.

James L. Arrasmith
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Answered

A: I'm sorry to hear you're going through this challenging time. Not having your attorney return your calls can be very frustrating, especially when dealing with such serious issues.

It might be a good idea to look for a new attorney who can give your case the attention it deserves. Ensuring you have someone reliable can make a significant difference in how your situation is handled.

In the meantime, keep detailed records of all events and communications related to your case. This will help any new attorney understand your situation quickly and effectively.

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