Divorce is one of life’s most challenging transitions. It is not just a legal battle, it is an emotional, financial, and deeply personal journey. The attorney you choose to guide you through this process can determine whether you emerge empowered or feel defeated. Unfortunately, not every divorce lawyer is the right fit, and many clients discover too late that their attorney is failing them.
As a medically trained New York divorce attorney and mediator with more than 35 years of experience, I have worked with many individuals who came to me after being disappointed by their first lawyer. They often felt ignored, overbilled, or left without a clear legal strategy. The good news is you do not have to stay with the wrong divorce lawyer. You can change attorneys, and sometimes, it is the smartest move you can make.
In this post, I will share the top red flags that indicate your divorce lawyer may not be serving your best interests, explain how to switch lawyers without disrupting your case, and highlight why so many clients turn to me and my stellar team when they want their divorce handled with strategy, empathy, and results.
Red Flags Your Divorce Attorney May Be Failing You
1. Lack of Communication
One of the most common complaints I hear from clients is, “My divorce lawyer never calls me back.” If your attorney is unresponsive to your phone calls or emails, or you feel left in the dark about the status of your case, that is a serious warning sign. Divorce is stressful enough you should never have to chase down your lawyer for basic updates.
2. No Clear Strategy
Every divorce is unique. A skilled divorce attorney should provide a roadmap, whether your case involves complex assets, child custody disputes, or high-conflict litigation. If your lawyer simply reacts to filings without giving you a clear plan, you risk unnecessary delays and poor outcomes.
3. Little to No Courtroom Experience
Not all divorces go to trial, but if yours does, you need an attorney who is confident in the courtroom. If your lawyer seems intimidated, avoids court at all costs, or pushes you toward settlements that don’t serve your interests, you may be left unprotected.
4. Overbilling or Unexplained Charges
Billing should be transparent. If you notice vague charges, excessive hourly billing, or fees that don’t make sense, this may signal that your lawyer is putting profits above your best interests.
5. Ignoring Mediation or Alternatives
Litigation is not always the best path. Mediation can save enormous amounts of time, money, and emotional pain. If your lawyer has never explained mediation as an option, they may be limiting your opportunities for a better outcome.
6. Disrespect or Lack of Empathy
Divorce is emotionally draining. If your lawyer is dismissive of your concerns, belittles your feelings, or treats you like just another case number, you deserve better. Compassion and understanding are just as important as legal skill.
How to Change Divorce Lawyers in New York
Many clients hesitate to switch attorneys because they fear it will delay or complicate their case. The truth is, in New York, you have the absolute right to change your divorce attorney at any time. Here’s how it works:
- Consult a new attorney first. Before making the switch, schedule a consultation to ensure you find the right fit. Look for a lawyer with strong litigation experience, proven negotiation skills, and excellent communication.
- File a substitution of counsel. This is a simple legal document that replaces your old lawyer with your new one. It ensures the court recognizes your new legal representation.
- Transfer your case file. Your previous attorney must hand over all documents, filings, and records so your new lawyer can seamlessly continue your case.
A strong new legal team can often correct mistakes, realign your strategy, and ensure you are better positioned for success.
For over three decades, I have guided clients through some of the most complex and high-stakes divorces in New York. Many of them came to me after feeling abandoned, frustrated, or even betrayed by their former attorneys.
What sets my practice apart is a unique blend of legal expertise and psychological insight. As a divorce attorney, court-appointed mediator, and medical professional, I bring a deep understanding of human behavior into the divorce process. This approach allows me to anticipate conflict, defuse hostility, and craft strategies that protect both financial and emotional well-being.
Here’s what my clients value most about working with me and my team:
- Elite Litigation Skills: For high-asset and high-conflict divorces, we deliver aggressive courtroom representation when necessary.
- Psychologically Based Mediation: My signature approach reduces conflict while achieving fair, lasting settlements.
- White-Glove Service: We pride ourselves on personalized attention, responsiveness, and strategic guidance. You will never feel ignored or unimportant.
- Protecting What Matters Most: Whether it’s complex financial assets, businesses, or child custody issues, we ensure your priorities are front and center.
Choosing the right divorce attorney isn’t just about legal knowledge, it’s about finding a trusted partner who will advocate fiercely for you while helping you navigate the emotional terrain of divorce.
If you see red flags in your current attorney, don’t wait. Staying with the wrong divorce lawyer can cost you more time, money, and stress than making a change.
My team and I specialize in rescuing cases from poor representation and putting them back on track. Whether you need skilled litigation, high-asset divorce strategy, or psychologically informed mediation, we are here to help!
Call now to schedule your free and confidential consultation today. Call 212-734-1551.
Let us show you how the right divorce attorney can change everything!
We look forward to helping you.
Warm regards,
Lois