If you have filed a maritime lawsuit against a negligent employer, drunk boater, irresponsible cruise line or other party, and your attorney passes away while the case is pending or you are no longer happy with your current attorney’s representation of you, you have the right to choose new legal representation. You always have the right to choose which attorney or law firm handles your case — from start to finish in any lawsuit.

When an attorney dies, his or her practice may be sold to another attorney or law firm, which is not always in the best interest of individual clients. The custom of selling a deceased attorney’s practice is legal in Massachusetts, because it enables representation to be transferred quickly and expedites the process of compensating the attorney’s estate.

One downside to this practice, however, is that clients are often pushed toward predetermined attorneys regardless of whether an attorney is the best choice to handle a particular case. The estate stands to earn a higher percentage if a client goes with the predetermined attorney, so they have a stake in who you choose.

If you have a pending maritime lawsuit and your attorney dies, you are not obligated to choose a particular attorney or law firm to take over your case. You always have the right to choose any lawyer you want, at any time. You are free to find an attorney who you feel has the right qualifications and who you believe will best represent your interests.

The Boston maritime attorneys at Latti & Anderson LLP have extensive experience representing maritime accident victims around the country. Whether you were injured in a commercial fishing accident in New Bedford, or were hurt in a ferry accident in Washington, we can help.

If you are seeking legal representation for a new or ongoing maritime case, visit our website to learn what Latti & Anderson LLP can do for you, and call us at (800) 392-6072 for a free consultation.

Latti & Anderson LLP – Boston maritime trial lawyers