Is It Time to Fire Your Disability Attorney?

Not all attorney/client relationships are a match made in heaven. Sometimes, for a multitude of reasons, you may decide it’s time to break up with your current attorney and search for a new disability lawyer in Boise. Before you make this decision, though, consider how the outcome will affect you and what you need to search for in a new lawyer.

Do You Have Unrealistic Expectations?

Often, disability claimants make the rash decision to fire their lawyers because they are frustrated with the process. Filing a claim with the Social Security Administration (SSA) is not a short course. It can take weeks, and sometimes months, for a decision to be reached. Erroneously, many claimants believe their attorney can make the process go faster and this is not the case. Also, many law firms take on numerous clients and have packed schedules, making it likely that phone calls and emails can go unanswered for days. When the SSA is not coming to a quick decision and communication with attorneys has gone dark, this is when most firings happen.

Here’s the deal though. If you have unrealistic expectations, you’ll continue to be disappointed with any lawyer you hire. Also, continuous firing of legal representation will make your case drag out longer than necessary. If you’re still convinced you need a new lawyer, ask the following questions before you shake hands and seal the deal.

• What is the average wait time for claims to be heard in Idaho (or your state)?

• How long do you take to respond to phone calls, emails, or texts?

While you can’t change SSA wait times, you can choose an attorney who will respond in a prompt and reasonable time-frame.

Are You Willing to Pay More?

When you signed a contract with your current lawyer, did you pay attention to the clause that mentioned early termination fees? Even if you hired your lawyer on a contingent basis, you may still be required to pay a fee if you decide to take your case elsewhere. This fee could be as much as 25% of what you’re eventually awarded by the SSA. Add that fee to the fee your new lawyer will take when your claim is decided and you may end up on the losing end.

One of the best ways to avoid a situation where you and your disability attorney in Boise are at odds is to hire carefully in the first place. If you have personality conflicts, disagreements about payment, or varying communication styles, consider looking elsewhere for representation.