Auto Insurance Claims: attorney, local bar association, working on your case

Question
I just asked you a question yesterday. But my attorneys treat me like a piece of meat. They dont stay in contact and hardly ever return my calls in a timely manner. I did hire them, but if i can handle this on my own without paying them to do this when they arent doing anything. Can i fire them? Is there a way i can let them go? there have been no negotiations at this point.. So what can i do? Thanks

Answer
You can always fire your attorney.  Some attorneys will place a lien on your settlement for hours they spent working on your case.  Most do not do this unless they really spent a lot of time working for you, or if they are sleazy.  You won't know until you fire them and then ask.  But I doubt they could charge much if anything.

You could then get a better attorney either through friend/family referrals, or a referral from the local bar association.  Stay away from lawyers who advertise on TV - they are all about volume and most are very sleazy.

If you decide to handle yourself, I can offer advice but I am not an attorney and it would be my opinion based on my experience.  Make sure your insurance company knows about this loss as they may be able to provide some coverage.  Good luck.