Switching solicitors mid-case
If your current solicitor has gone quiet, dropped your case, charged fees you didn't expect, or just isn't fighting hard enough, you can switch. Your case file legally belongs to you. The clock on Awaab's Law isn't reset by a bad solicitor.
When switching makes sense
- Your solicitor hasn't replied in 2+ weeks
- They've sent you a fee schedule different from what you agreed
- They're pushing you to settle for far less than the case is worth
- They want to drop your case entirely (and the reason doesn't add up)
- You feel rushed, patronised, or kept in the dark about your own case
- You've been moved between caseworkers 3+ times
How the switch works
- You contact us (form below or call). Tell us who your current firm is and where the case is up to.
- We assess, free, no pressure. We'll be honest if we think your current firm is actually doing fine and switching wouldn't help.
- If we proceed, you give written instructions to your current firm to transfer the file. They're legally required to release it.
- Our panel solicitor picks it up, the clock doesn't reset, the evidence still exists, and Awaab's Law deadlines are unaffected.
Will I pay twice?
No. Your original firm can claim costs from your eventual settlement (subject to caps), but you don't pay both. The same agreed fee applies across the whole case, not per solicitor.
What if my original solicitor refuses to release the file?
They can't legally refuse. If they try, you can complain to the Solicitors Regulation Authority. That is a serious regulatory breach. In practice, a firm-to-firm transfer request from us usually resolves it quickly.
How do I complain about my current solicitor?
Two-stage process. Stage 1 is the firm's own complaints procedure. Every SRA-regulated firm must have one and must respond in writing. Stage 2 is the Legal Ombudsman, free of charge, who investigates poor service and can order compensation up to £50,000.
Legal Ombudsman: legalombudsman.org.uk · 0300 555 0333. You normally have six months from the firm's final response to complain, and six years from the act you are complaining about.
What if my current solicitor wants me to settle low?
You do not have to accept any settlement your solicitor recommends. They can advise, but the decision is yours. If you are being pressured to accept a figure that feels too low, get a second opinion before signing. We will review the offer for free and tell you honestly whether it is fair, even if you decide to stay with your current firm.
Tell us about your case
Takes about 3 minutes. We respond within one working day. Free assessment, no obligation.
Talk to us directly
Call free and a real person will help in under a minute. You can also message us on WhatsApp or by email.