My Lawyer Isn’t Fighting for Me – What to Do
When you’ve been seriously injured in an accident in New York City, you expect your lawyer to fight for your rights, communicate clearly, and help you recover full compensation. But if your calls go unanswered, your case feels stalled, or you’re pressured to accept a low settlement, you may be asking yourself:
“Is my personal injury lawyer really fighting for me?”
At Greenstein & Pittari, LLP, our NYC injury attorneys understand how frustrating it is to feel ignored or forgotten. Here’s what you should know – and what you can do – if your lawyer isn’t doing their job.
Common Reasons NYC Clients Feel Their Lawyer Isn’t Advocating for Them
In New York personal injury cases, some delays are expected due to medical treatment, insurance negotiations, or crowded court calendars. However, consistent silence or lack of progress is a warning sign.
Common issues include:
- Poor Communication: You rarely receive updates about your case.
- Overloaded Caseloads: Large firms handle too many cases, leaving clients feeling like numbers.
- Lack of Preparation or Interest: Your attorney seems uninvested or forgets key details.
- Pressure to Settle Fast: You’re told to take a low offer instead of holding out for what your case is truly worth.
- Missed Deadlines or Mistakes: Procedural errors, missed hearings, or filing delays put your recovery at risk.
Even if these issues don’t amount to malpractice, you have the right to expect better.
Red Flags That Your Personal Injury Lawyer Isn’t Fighting for You
If several of the following apply, it may be time to reevaluate your representation:
- You don’t get return calls or email responses.
- You never receive updates about settlement negotiations or court dates.
- You’re pressured to accept an offer that feels unfair.
- Your lawyer doesn’t explain legal strategy or next steps.
- Your case seems “cookie-cutter” rather than personalized.
A dedicated NYC personal injury attorney will always keep you informed, prioritize your needs, and fight aggressively for full compensation.
What You Can Do If Your Lawyer Isn’t Fighting for You in New York
You are not stuck. New York law allows you to change attorneys at nearly any stage of your case. Here’s how to protect yourself and your rights:
1. Communicate Your Concerns: Request a direct conversation. Sometimes, lack of communication stems from mismanagement, not malice. Be specific about what you expect moving forward.
2. Request Written Updates: Could you send a follow-up email or certified letter requesting regular updates and a response timeline?
3. Seek a Second Opinion: A qualified New York personal injury lawyer can review your case and tell you whether your attorney is meeting professional standards.
4. Change Lawyers if Necessary: You have the absolute right to fire your current lawyer. Your new attorney can handle the transition and request your case file.
Switching Personal Injury Lawyers in New York City
You can change lawyers at almost any point – even after filing a lawsuit.
Most personal injury cases are handled on a contingency fee basis, which means:
- You do not pay extra for changing lawyers.
- Your old and new lawyers share the same single fee.
- The fee split is based on how much work each attorney performed.
- Your total recovery stays the same – you won’t lose money.
At Greenstein & Pittari, we frequently take over stalled cases and ensure a smooth transition without disrupting your claim.
How to Transition Smoothly to a New NYC Injury Lawyer
- Review your contract for termination clauses.
- Hire a new personal injury firm with experience, communication, and resources.
- Let your new lawyer handle the notice to your old attorney.
- Transfer your case file to your new legal team.
- Focus on your recovery while your new lawyer pushes your case forward.
Why Acting Quickly Matters in New York Injury Cases
I think that delaying action can hurt your case. A disengaged lawyer can lead to:
- Missed statute of limitations deadlines (3 years in most NY injury cases).
- Lost evidence or witnesses.
- Weak negotiations and undervalued settlements.
- Prolonged financial hardship.
Don’t wait for your lawyer to “get around to it.” Take control now and secure representation that fights for every dollar you’re owed.
Qualities of a Strong New York City Personal Injury Lawyer
When choosing a new attorney, look for these key traits:
- Proven Results in NYC Injury Cases – Car crashes, construction accidents, slip and falls, and more.
- Open Communication – Regular updates and honest advice.
- Trial Experience – A willingness to take your case to court when insurers don’t offer fair settlements.
- Integrity and Compassion – Transparency, respect, and genuine client care.
- Aggressive Advocacy – Relentless pursuit of maximum compensation.
Why Choose Greenstein & Pittari, LLP?
At Greenstein & Pittari, LLP, our award-winning New York City personal injury lawyers have earned a reputation for results, responsiveness, and relentless advocacy.
We proudly serve clients across all five boroughs and surrounding counties with offices in Harlem, Bronx, Brooklyn, Queens, Staten Island, Yonkers, and Nassau County.
Our Commitment to You:
- Top-rated by Best Lawyers & Super Lawyers
- Bilingual services available
- No Fee Unless We Win – Our Fee Guarantee
- Hundreds of positive client testimonials
- Experience with car accidents, construction injuries, premises liability, and severe trauma cases
We handle every aspect of your case, from insurance negotiations to trial so that you can focus on healing.
Contact a NYC Personal Injury Lawyer Who Will Fight for You
If you believe your lawyer isn’t fighting for you, don’t settle for less. You deserve a law firm that treats your case like it matters – because it does.
Call 1-800-VICTIM-2 (1-800-842-8462) today or complete our online consultation form for a free and confidential case review.
At Greenstein & Pittari, LLP, we’ll show you what real advocacy looks like.
Don’t be a victim twice – let our New York City injury lawyers fight for you.