How do you retain a new lawyer and dismiss the one that is currently working on your case. What is legal etiquette?

Lawyers are no different from other service providers.  If you are truly not happy with someone's service, it is your right to change attorneys at any time.  The process is pretty simple.  You would need to sign a letter addressed to your current attorney stating that you no longer wish for him or her to represent you.  You should ask that your entire file be forwarded to your new attorney.  I would suggest in the letter that it state your request that you not be contacted.  In my experience, lawyers will often call the upset client and pressure that client to stay, making you feel uncomfortable.  Keep in mind that you may owe some legal fee to the prior attorney for the work performed, but that amount should come out of the new attorney's fee.  It should not cost you any more. Steven A. Schwartz Attorney/Partner   JOEL H. SCHWARTZ, P.C. One Washington Mall, 16th floor Boston, MA  02108 (617) 742-1170 (800) 660-2270 (617) 250-2072 fax sas@joelhschwartz.com