Changing solicitors: a practical guide to transferring your case
If you are considering changing solicitors, begin by discussing your concerns and the status of your case with the proposed new firm. A planned handover helps protect continuity, documents and upcoming deadlines.
Start with the next court date
Provide the court, case number, hearing date and any deadline. Explain who currently represents you and whether counsel is involved. Do not assume that requesting a transfer postpones a hearing or changes an existing obligation.
Confirm that the new firm can act
The proposed solicitor needs to assess the instructions, availability and any conflict of interest before accepting the matter. Discuss the work already completed, the work still required and the proposed costs.
Arrange authority and the file transfer
If the firm agrees to act, it can explain the written authority needed to request your file. Supply copies of documents already in your possession and identify material that may need to be obtained, including correspondence, court orders and prosecution disclosure where relevant.
Discuss outstanding fees
Unpaid costs and questions about release of documents can affect a transfer. Ask for advice on the particular position. Do not assume that all records will be released immediately or that the new firm will undertake to pay the former solicitor’s bill.
What if my criminal case is legally aided?
Tell us which court granted the certificate and who is assigned. Any required court application and arrangements for the assignment must be addressed. Signing an authority alone does not guarantee that legal aid has transferred or that Harringtons has taken responsibility for your next appearance.
Confirm the handover
Before treating the change as complete, establish who will attend the next hearing, what documents have been received and what remains outstanding. Phelim O’Neill leads criminal matters; David Harrington is the contact for the firm’s civil practice areas.
Arrange a consultation
Call 01 539 4747. Please mention any upcoming interview, hearing or deadline. This is general information; advice on your circumstances requires individual instructions.
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