Legal Question in Criminal Law in California

Traffic Ticket - Change of Attorney

I hired an attorney to fight my speeding ticket. I had paid him in full and made a verbal agreement over the phone. When I asked him for a written contract (which he promised to deliver upon payment), he flipped and accused me of not trusting him. Psychologically, I think he has abandoned my case already.

He said that he'd gladly refund my money and terminate our agreement.

So far, he had already attended the arraignment and set a trial date for me. Does that mean that his name is tied to my case? How should I proceed to change of attorney? Can I just show up on the trial date and represent myself?


Asked on 9/06/07, 10:14 pm

2 Answers from Attorneys
Scott Linden Scott H. Linden, Esq.

Re: Traffic Ticket - Change of Attorney

you can change any time you want. I wouldn't do it before you get another one, however. If you don't want him, get your money back and hire another. The new one can request additional time becuse s/he is new counsel and that gives them time to prepare a defense.

Most traffic tickets are usually plead out, but it's a lot easier for an attorney to get a better plea than the defendant themselves. Not so much because of the training, moreover because they are separated from being personally involved. We have a saying, a lawyer who represents himself has a fool for a client.

If you're here in So Cal, let me know if you need further assistance or if you want me to take a look at your case. I can be reached at the info provided by LawGuru or through one of our firm's websites such as ImInnocent.com and No-Probate.com

Namaste,

Scott

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Answered on 9/07/07, 8:25 pm
Anne Marie Healy Law Offices of Anne Marie Healy

Re: Traffic Ticket - Change of Attorney

Get your money back. Yes, his name is tied to your case, but you have the right to fire him and sub yourself or another attorney in.

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Answered on 9/07/07, 12:46 am


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