Firing your attorney is never easy. Sometimes, you must fire them “for cause.” This means they messed up. You need a formal letter to explain why.
Need to write this tough letter? You’re in the right place. We’ve got templates to make it simple.
Our samples will guide you. They will help you write the perfect “fired for cause” letter. Let’s get started.
Sample Letter To Fired Your Attorney For Cause
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
[Attorney’s Name]
[Law Firm Name]
[Law Firm Address]
Subject: Termination of Legal Representation – [Case Name or Matter]
Dear [Attorney’s Name],
This letter serves as formal notification that I am terminating your services as my attorney, effective immediately. This termination is for cause.
My reasons for this decision include [Specifically list the reasons for firing the attorney. Examples: failure to communicate, neglect of the case, unethical behavior, disagreement on strategy, etc. Be clear and concise].
I request that you immediately cease all work on my case, [Case Name or Matter]. Please provide me with a complete copy of my case file, including all documents, correspondence, and notes, within [Number] days.
I also request a detailed and itemized bill for all services rendered to date. I will review it and remit payment for the reasonable value of services properly performed.
Please confirm receipt of this letter and your compliance with my requests.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
How to Write Letter To Fired Your Attorney For Cause
Subject Line: Clarity is Key
The subject line should be unambiguous. State your intent outright. A vague subject line can lead to delays or misinterpretations. Consider: “Termination of Legal Representation – [Your Name] – Case Number [If Applicable]”.
Salutation: Maintain Professionalism
Even amidst discontent, civility prevails. Address your attorney formally. Options include:
- “Dear Mr./Ms./Mx. [Attorney’s Last Name],”
- “To [Attorney’s Name],” – If you’re unsure of their title.
The Indictment: Clearly State the “For Cause” Reason
This is the crux of your letter. Detail the specific reasons for termination. Use concrete examples and avoid hyperbole. Include dates, times, and specific instances of malfeasance or dereliction of duty. For example:
- “Failure to communicate updates on the case for a period exceeding [duration].”
- “Neglect in filing necessary documentation by the stipulated deadline, specifically [document name].”
- “Violation of ethical obligations as demonstrated by [brief description].”
Disentanglement: Outline Expectations for Case Transition
Specify what you expect regarding the transfer of your case files. Be explicit about timelines. Indicate how you will retrieve your documents. Consider:
- “I expect the complete case file, including all correspondence, pleadings, and discovery materials, to be made available for pickup within [number] days of this letter.”
- “Please provide an itemized bill for services rendered up to the date of this termination.”
- “Indicate the procedure for obtaining any funds held in escrow related to this case.”
Fee Resolution: Address Outstanding Payments
Clearly articulate your position on outstanding fees. If you dispute any charges, enumerate the reasons for your contentions. Be prepared to substantiate your claims with evidence.
- “I contest the invoice dated [date] for [amount] due to [reason, e.g., overbilling, services not rendered].”
- “I am prepared to remit payment for services rendered up to [date] based on the agreed-upon hourly rate of [amount].”
Finality: Affirm Your Decision
Reiterate that your decision is final and that you are terminating the attorney-client relationship effective immediately. This leaves no room for ambiguity or second-guessing.
“This letter serves as unequivocal notification that your services are no longer required, and the attorney-client relationship is hereby terminated, effective immediately.”
Closing: End on a Respectful Note
Conclude with a polite but firm closing. Options include:
- “Sincerely,”
- “Respectfully,”
Followed by your printed name and signature. Date the letter for record-keeping purposes. Send the letter via certified mail with return receipt requested, ensuring proof of delivery.
Frequently Asked Questions: Firing Your Attorney For Cause
Terminating your attorney-client relationship, especially “for cause,” requires careful consideration. This FAQ addresses common questions about drafting a sample letter to fire your attorney due to unsatisfactory performance or ethical concerns.
What does “firing an attorney for cause” mean?
Firing an attorney “for cause” means terminating their services due to a specific reason, such as negligence, ethical violations, or failure to competently represent your interests.
What should a sample letter to fire my attorney for cause include?
The letter should clearly state that you are terminating the attorney-client relationship, the specific reasons for the termination (with details and dates), a request for your case file, and instructions on how to handle any outstanding payments or refunds.
Can I fire my attorney at any time, even without “cause”?
Yes, you generally have the right to fire your attorney at any time. However, firing “for cause” may have implications regarding attorney fees and potential legal recourse.
What if my attorney refuses to return my case file after I fire them?
An attorney is generally obligated to return your case file promptly. If they refuse, you may need to contact your local bar association or consider legal action to compel them to release it.
Should I send the termination letter via certified mail?
Yes, sending the termination letter via certified mail with return receipt requested provides proof that the attorney received the letter and ensures a documented record of the termination date.
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