We rarely notice the exact moment when trust begins to slip. It’s quiet at first—a missed call here, a vague answer there. You tell yourself they’re busy, that there’s a plan, that everything’s under control. But something shifts. And then, before you know it, that gut feeling starts to whisper that “Something’s off.”

It’s not easy to question the very person meant to defend you. But when the silence gets louder than the support, it’s only natural to wonder—can I really switch lawyers? Is it too late, too complicated, or too risky?

Let’s talk about that. Because staying stuck with the wrong lawyer might cost you the entire case.

1) The Simple Answer: Yes, You Can Change Your Lawyer

If you’re asking yourself whether you can change your attorney, the answer is yes—you absolutely can, especially here in Florida. It doesn’t matter what stage your case is in. If you're not happy with your current lawyer, you have the right to find someone else who better fits your needs.

You’re not locked into the first attorney you hired. If something doesn’t feel right, you’re allowed to make a change—and you should if it means getting the support and representation you deserve.

A must-read for you: What Are Your Rights to Cancel an Attorney Contract in Florida

2) Common Reasons People Switch Attorneys

Now, if you’re thinking about changing lawyers, you’re not alone—and you're not being unreasonable. There are a few common reasons why people decide their current attorney just isn't the right fit anymore.

• The most frequent one we see? Communication—or really, the lack of it. If your attorney isn't calling you back, keeping you in the loop, or making you feel like you’re chasing down your own case updates, that's a problem. You deserve better than radio silence.

• Sometimes, it’s not about silence but about disagreement. You might not see eye-to-eye on how your case is being handled, what steps are being taken, or how aggressively your lawyer is pursuing your claim. If you’re not confident in the strategy, that’s worth paying attention to.

• Then there are cases where things just feel off—maybe the professionalism isn’t there. Maybe deadlines are being missed or you’re not getting the respect and focus your case deserves.

• And finally, there’s the simple reality that sometimes two people just don’t click. You and your attorney might not have the connection or trust needed to move forward. And that’s okay—it happens.

What matters is recognizing it and knowing you have the option to move on.

3) Things to Consider Before Making the Change

So yes—you can change your lawyer. But before you do, there are a few things you need to think through. It’s not always as simple as just walking away, especially if your case has already made some progress.

• Is Your Case in Litigation?

If your case has already been filed in court and you're in the middle of litigation, changing lawyers is still possible—but it can come with a few more steps. There may be court procedures involved, and your new attorney will have to file certain documents to officially take over. It’s doable, but it’s something you and your new lawyer will want to plan for.

• What Does Your Fee Agreement Say?

Most people sign a contingency fee agreement with their personal injury attorney. That means your lawyer only gets paid if you win or settle your case. But if you switch lawyers, the first attorney may still be entitled to a portion of that final settlement—even if they don’t finish the case.

• Are They Owed for Their Time?

If the first lawyer has already spent time working on your case, they may be entitled to compensation for the hours they’ve already put in. That doesn’t necessarily mean you'll be double-billed—sometimes, depending on the amount, the fee may get split between your old and new attorneys based on the work done, but your new attorney does not have to agree to this. Still, it’s something you’ll want to understand before making the switch.

• How Much Work Has Already Been Done?

This part matters. If your original attorney did very little—maybe they just opened the file and made a few calls—it’s likely a clean break. But if they’ve gathered evidence, negotiated with insurance companies, or even started drafting court documents, then the value of their work may need to be accounted for.

Before you make a decision, it’s always smart to consult with the new attorney first. For more clarity on the process of changing lawyers, here's attorney Rob Johnson explaining your rights..

4) Can You Get a Second Opinion? Absolutely.

If something doesn’t feel right about your current representation, getting a second opinion is undoubtedly a smart move. 

• You Have the Right to Ask Another Attorney

Just like with any major decision—whether it’s about your health, your finances, or your legal case—you’re entitled to another perspective. There’s no rule that says you have to stick with the first lawyer you hired if you’re not sure they’re the right fit. A new attorney will not be able to go over the specific details of your case since they do not have the file, but they can answer general questions about the process.

You don't need to look elsewhere: Meet David Carter A Personal Approach to Injury Law

• Yes, There Are Ethical Rules But They’re Clear

Now, there are professional guidelines that attorneys follow when a client wants to switch representation, but none of that stops you from talking to someone else. A good attorney knows how to handle the situation respectfully and ethically, without stepping on any toes or creating conflicts.

• It’s Okay to Want Clarity

Sometimes, you just want to know if you’re on the right track. Maybe you’re not ready to switch attorneys—but you’re not ready to settle for silence or uncertainty either. A second opinion gives you a clearer picture of your options, and that can make all the difference.

Need a Second Opinion? Carter Injury Law Is Here

If you’re in a spot where you’re unsure about your current lawyer—or you’re just not feeling heard—it’s okay to reach out. Sometimes you just need to talk it through with someone who’s going to listen and give it to you straight. That’s what we’re here for.

My name is Attorney David Carter, and at Carter Injury Law, we’ve helped plenty of people who found themselves questioning their current legal representation. Whether you’re ready to make a change or you just want another set of eyes on your case, we’re more than happy to help.

You can reach us at 813-922-0228, or head over to our website at Carterinjurylaw.com. Just honest advice so you can make the best decision for your future.