What to Do If Your Personal Injury Lawyer Isn’t Calling You Back
One of the most common frustrations clients face during personal injury cases is a lack of communication from their attorney. If you find yourself wondering, “Why isn’t my lawyer returning my calls?”, it’s a sign that you may need to take action. In personal injury cases, consistent communication with your attorney is essential to ensure your case is being handled properly and your rights are protected.
Why Communication Matters
Your attorney is your advocate and the person responsible for evaluating your claim, gathering evidence, negotiating with insurance companies, and guiding you through the legal process. Without consistent communication:
You may miss important updates about your case.
You might be unaware of deadlines or settlement opportunities.
You could feel uncertain about whether your case is being handled properly.
From the very beginning, it’s important that you have access to your attorney and that they answer your questions in a timely manner. If someone else—a case manager or paralegal—signed you up for the case and handles all communication, it could be a warning sign that your attorney isn’t fully engaged.
Red Flags That Your Lawyer Isn’t Prioritizing You
Some signs that your attorney may not be giving your case the attention it deserves include:
Delayed responses to phone calls, emails, or messages
No direct communication with the attorney handling your case
Lack of updates on the progress of your claim or settlement negotiations
Delegating all communication to staff without consulting the attorney about major decisions
Remember, as the client, you deserve direct access to your attorney when you have questions or concerns.
What You Can Do
If you’re experiencing poor communication, here are your options:
Document Your Attempts
Keep a record of calls, emails, and messages. This documentation may help if you need to transition to a new attorney.Request a Meeting
Ask for a face-to-face or phone meeting with your attorney to discuss your concerns. Clear communication about expectations can sometimes resolve the issue.Consider Changing Lawyers
In Texas, you have the right to fire your attorney at any time, for any reason. You can hire a new attorney who will provide the attention and support your case deserves.Choose an Attorney Who Prioritizes You
Look for a personal injury attorney who is responsive, accessible, and proactive in communicating with clients. The right attorney will guide you through every step of the process and ensure your case is presented effectively.
Why It’s Important to Act Quickly
Delays in communication can affect the timely filing of claims, submission of medical records, or negotiations with insurance companies. Addressing poor communication early ensures that:
Your case moves forward without unnecessary delays
Your rights are fully protected
You have confidence in your attorney and the process
Switching to a responsive, experienced attorney can make a significant difference in the outcome of your personal injury claim.