Can I Fire My Personal Injury Lawyer in Texas? Here’s What Happens Next If You Do
Somewhere between your first meeting and now, something changed. Maybe your lawyer went quiet. Maybe they’re pressuring you into a quick settlement that doesn’t feel right. Or maybe you’ve just lost confidence in how your case is being handled. Either way, the question has crossed your mind: can I fire my personal injury lawyer in Texas?
You can. Firing your attorney is legal statewide. But doing it mid-case comes with strings attached. Whether you’re pursuing a personal injury claim in Spring, Houston, or anywhere else in Texas, you’ll want to know exactly what you’re stepping into before making the switch.
Why Clients Decide to Change Lawyers
Hiring a lawyer after a personal injury often comes with high expectations—regular updates, solid advice, and someone who fights for your best interest. But what happens when your calls start going unanswered? Or when you feel more like a number than a person?
For many in Texas, doubts start creeping in when communication breaks down or when legal advice starts feeling rushed or one-sided. Some clients begin to worry when they’re pushed toward a quick settlement without much explanation. Others lose confidence because they never really understood the strategy to begin with—or felt excluded from decisions.
Trust can fade fast in situations like this. And once it’s gone, it’s hard to stay focused on your case. That’s why many people in personal injury claims—whether in Spring, Houston, or other parts of Texas—decide to move on and look for new representation. It’s not about being difficult. It’s about wanting to be heard, informed, and properly represented.
Are You Allowed to Fire Your Lawyer?
Yes. Under Texas law, you have the right to end your attorney-client relationship at any time. Whether you’re in Spring, a suburb just north of Houston, or anywhere else in the state, you can fire your personal injury lawyer in Texas. But be aware that while you’re allowed to do it, there may be costs or complications involved.
For instance, your current lawyer may have a lien on your case, which means they’re entitled to a portion of the legal fees if you win or settle. This is especially common when switching personal injury attorneys in Texas, since most work on a contingency basis.
What Happens After You Fire Your Lawyer?
When you end the relationship, your former lawyer must formally withdraw from the case and transfer your file to you or your new attorney. If a lawsuit has already been filed, they may need to submit a motion to withdraw with the court. This can take some time, so it’s important to act quickly if your case is active.
The Texas Disciplinary Rules of Professional Conduct require that your previous lawyer hand over your file, even if money is still owed. You have a right to access the work already completed, which will help your new attorney avoid starting from scratch.
Finding a New Lawyer
Before firing your current attorney, it’s smart to meet with a new one first. That way, you won’t be left without legal guidance in the middle of your case. Look for someone who can clearly explain your options and who is ready to take on the case at its current stage.
Keep in mind: if you’re changing lawyers during a personal injury case in Texas, your new attorney may need time to review your file before making decisions about trial preparation or settlement negotiations. Make sure they have access to your records as soon as possible.
Will It Hurt Your Case?
Switching personal injury attorneys in Texas doesn’t automatically hurt your case, but timing matters. If your trial is coming up soon, changing lawyers may delay things or require your new attorney to request more time from the court.
In the Houston area, where court dockets are often crowded, judges may not grant many extensions. So make this move carefully. The best time to fire your lawyer is early in the process, ideally before a lawsuit is filed or before critical court deadlines arrive.
How to Fire Your Lawyer Properly
If you’ve decided to move forward, here’s how to do it right:
- Send a written notice. This can be done via email or letter, but make sure it’s clear and professional. You don’t have to explain why, but it’s helpful to mention that you’ll be hiring someone new.
- Request your file. Ask for all documents and evidence collected so far. You can have them sent directly to your new attorney.
- Notify the court (if needed). If your case is already in litigation, the court must be told. Your former lawyer can file a motion to withdraw, and your new lawyer will need to file a notice of substitution.
By following these steps, you avoid unnecessary delays or confusion.
Final Thoughts Before You Decide
It’s not unusual for people to feel unsure about their legal representation, especially in cases that stretch on for months. If your gut tells you something isn’t right, you’re allowed to make a change. But take the time to do it correctly. A clear transition helps protect your case—and your peace of mind.
Do You Need Help Moving Forward?
At JB Law, PLLC, we understand how important it is to feel supported and informed during a personal injury case. If you’re wondering whether you can fire your personal injury lawyer in Texas, we can help you take the next step with confidence. Whether you need someone to take over your injury claim, defend you in a criminal case, pursue a civil rights action, or provide limited-scope legal help, we’re ready to work with you.
We handle every case with care, no matter how it comes to us. If you’re ready to move forward with a team that will treat your case like it matters, start here: talk to our attorneys in Spring, TX.
