Consistent Successfor Over 25 Years
Steven M. Sweat, Personal Injury Lawyers, APC
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10 Best 2018 Attorney - Client satisfaction
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Top 10 - Personal Injury Lawyer

My Personal injury Lawyer Won’t Call Me Back, Can I Switch?

One of the most common scenarios I see is someone who has been injured in an accident, hires an attorney and then never hears back as to the status of their case. This leads to confusion about where they stand and they wonder …

Can I hire a new attorney who will actually take my calls and let me know what it going on with my claim?

In a word, yes. As a consumer of legal services, you are entitled to be represented by the legal counsel of your choice. All persons who are licensed to practice law in the Golden State are mandated to comply with the Rules of Professional Conduct. These rules require the following:

  • CA Rule of Conduct 4-100: This requires an attorney to maintain all property of the client (including file materials) and requires that the law practitioner promptly deliver all such property upon reasonable request.
  • CA Rule of Conduct 3-700: This requires a member of the State Bar of California to promptly release to the client, at the request of the client, all the client papers and property and to take all reasonable steps to ensure that the client’s claim is not prejudiced upon termination of employment by the client.
What is the process of terminating my attorney and hiring a new one and do I have to “confront” the old lawyer?

Upon deciding that it is “time for a change” of counsel, the client can seek out a new lawyer. Once they are satisfied that the new attorney will begin prosecuting their case and communicating with them about it, all they need to do is sign a new retainer agreement and a disclosure that they are terminating the prior attorney-client relationship and authorizing the new counsel to be provided with all prior files. Once this is done, the new legal counsel simply sends a letter to the old one, which advises of the change. The client doesn’t have to speak with the old attorney or do anything further.

Example of a Recent Client Who Changed Lawyers to Our Firm and Were Very Happy They Did: California Personal  Injury Attorneys

Our firm routinely substitutes into cases where client’s are not satisfied with the level of representation they are receiving. There are any number of recent examples. In one recent case, the client had not heard from his lawyer for months and could only speak with a “secretary” or “paralegal” every time he called their office. He was also not satisfied that the counselor was moving forward on his case and/or communicating with him about the case. He came to us, we made a change and we were able to prosecute the case fully. Even though the case took close to two years to complete, we kept him informed at each stage of the game as to what was going on and what we were doing to get the claim resolved. Ultimately, the matter was concluded with a seven figure settlement and the client was very glad he decided to change lawyers and hire our firm.

Client Reviews
★★★★★
I have known Steven for some time now and when his services were required he jumped in and took control of my cases. I had two and they were handled with the utmost professionalism and courtesy. He went the extra mile regardless of the bumps in the road. I can not see me using any other attorney and I would recommend him to any of my family and friends. Josie A.
★★★★★
Steven was vital during our most trying time. He was referred by a friend after an accident that involved a family member. While he was critical and lying in the hospital, Steven was kind, patient and knowledgeable about what we were going through. Following our loss, Steven became a tough and aggressive negotiator and made sure that we receive a huge compensation. I would refer Steven in fact, this happened 2 years ago and I still speak highly of his service. Cheryl S.
★★★★★
Mr. Sweat is a pitbull in the courtroom as well as settlement negotiations - You can't have a better equipped attorney in your corner! It is a pleasure working as colleagues together on numerous cases. He can get the job done. Jonathan K.
★★★★★
Because of Steven Sweat, my medical support was taken care of. Plus, I had more money to spare for my other bills. Steven is not only an excellent personal injury lawyer, providing the best legal advice, but also a professional lawyer who goes beyond his call of duty just to help his clients! He stood up for me and helped me get through the process. I would definitely recommend. I couldn't think of any better lawyer than him. MiraJane C.
★★★★★
I must tell anyone, if you need a great attorney, Steve sweat is the guy! I had an awful car accident and had no idea where to turn. He had so much to deal with because my accident was a 4 car pile up. Not to mention all the other cars were behind me and they were not wanting to settle in any way! He never stopped working for me and had my best interest at heart! Audra W.
★★★★★
I believe I made the best choice with Steven M Sweat, Personal Injury. I was very reluctant to go forward with my personal injury claim. I had a valid claim and I needed a professional attorney to handle it. I felt so much better when I let Steven take my case. His team did everything right and I am very satisfied. Stia P.
★★★★★
I have to say that Steve has been exemplary! I met Steve at a point with my case that I was ready to give up. He took the time and dealt with all of my concerns. Most importantly, he was present and listened to what I was going through. He was able to turn things around, put me and my case on the right track! The results were better that expected! Highly recommend!! Cody A.