How to Change Lawyers in the Middle of Your Case in the UAE: A Step-by-Step Guide in 2025
It is not uncommon for litigants to switch lawyers in the middle of their case. We estimate that 70-80% of our new clients hire us as a replacement for a previous lawyer. The process may seem confusing or inefficient, but this is often not the case.
Hiring a lawyer is one of the most critical decisions you make when you have a legal issue. Whether it’s a complex business dispute, a family matter, or a criminal allegation, your lawyer is your voice, your advocate, and your guide through the UAE’s legal system. But what happens when that relationship no longer serves your best interests?
Perhaps your lawyer isn’t communicating clearly, seems unprepared in court, or lacks the strategic direction your case urgently needs. You’re not alone—and more importantly, you’re not stuck. Many clients in the UAE find themselves asking the same question:
Can I change my lawyer in the middle of my case?
The answer is yes—and this guide will show you how.
In this article, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about changing lawyers in the middle of your case in the UAE: the legal process, potential risks, and how to make the transition as smooth as possible. Because when your future is on the line, you deserve legal representation that truly works in your favor.
Common Reasons Clients Change Lawyers in the Middle of the Case in Dubai
Changing lawyers during an ongoing legal matter may feel daunting, but many clients in the UAE find themselves needing better representation. Below are the most common and justifiable reasons why individuals and businesses choose to switch lawyers mid-case:
Lack of Communication
Your lawyer should keep you informed at every critical stage. If you’re constantly chasing updates, that’s a red flag.
Poor Performance in the Courtroom
An unprepared or disorganized courtroom presence can weaken your case and damage your confidence in your lawyer.
Pushing You to Settle Unfavorably
If your lawyer pressures you to accept a settlement that doesn’t serve your interests, it could be time to reconsider your representation.
Not Understanding the Issues / Lack of Experience
A lawyer who doesn’t grasp the legal complexities of your matter—or lacks experience in that area of law—can do more harm than good.
Lack of Progress or Strategy
A case without a clear plan or direction can quickly stall, leading to frustration and lost opportunities.
Lack of Preparation
Missed deadlines, poor document handling, or last-minute filings indicate negligence and risk weakening your legal position.
Conflicts of Interest
Any indication that your lawyer may be representing opposing interests—or has undisclosed connections—warrants immediate attention.
Loss of Trust or Confidence
Once trust is compromised, it’s difficult to maintain a productive attorney-client relationship.
Over-Billing or Fee Disputes
Unexplained charges, vague billing, or inflated invoices are common reasons clients choose to walk away.
Poor Responsiveness
Delayed replies to your calls, emails, or legal questions often signal deeper issues with client management.
Is It Legal to Change Lawyers in the Middle of the Case in the UAE?
Yes, it is entirely legal to change your lawyer during an ongoing case in the UAE. Clients have the right to choose their legal representative at any stage of litigation, whether in civil, criminal, or family matters. The UAE legal system recognizes the importance of trust and confidence between a litigantS and their lawyer.
Legal Basis:
Under UAE Federal Law No. 23 of 1991 governing the legal profession, a client may terminate the services of their lawyer at any time, provided the proper procedures are followed, and any contractual or financial obligations are settled.
Important Considerations:
While the law permits changing lawyers, the timing can impact your case, especially:
If your case is at an advanced trial stage
If court deadlines are approaching
If your new lawyer needs time to review and catch up
In such cases, switching lawyers may cause delays or require court approval to reschedule hearings.
Steps to Change Lawyers in the UAE
Changing your lawyer mid-case doesn’t have to be complicated—especially if you follow the proper legal process. Here’s a clear, step-by-step guide to ensure a smooth transition of legal representation in the UAE:
Step 1: Review Your Legal Services Agreement
>> Termination clauses
>> Notice periods
>> Fee-related obligations, such as outstanding payments or penalties for early termination
⚠️ Understanding your contractual obligations will help you avoid unnecessary disputes.
Step 2: Notify Your Current Lawyer in Writing
✉️ Sample Notice Template:
“Dear [Lawyer’s Name],
I would like to formally terminate our legal services agreement with effect from [issue date]. I appreciate the work you have done thus far, but I have decided to proceed with alternate legal representation. Kindly provide me with all case-related documents and facilitate the transition accordingly.”
Step 3: Appoint Your New Lawyer
>> Specializes in the relevant area of law
>> Has experience with ongoing or transferred cases
>> Understands the urgency and complexity of your matter
Schedule a detailed handover meeting to brief them and provide access to your case files and previous court submissions.
Step 4: File a Power of Attorney (PoA) for the New Lawyer
📝 Process:
>> Visit a Notary Public to draft and attest the PoA
>> Include authorization for the lawyer to act on your behalf in court
>> Submit the attested PoA to your lawyer (some cases may require Arabic translation)
📅 Timeline: Typically takes 1–3 business days depending on documentation and jurisdiction.
Step 5: Notify the Court (If Case Is Ongoing)
>> Your new lawyer will submit a formal notice of substitution
>> The court will update your records and recognize the new legal representative
>> Hearings or deadlines may be rescheduled to accommodate the change, if necessary
⚖️ Timely court notification ensures there are no disruptions in your legal proceedings.
Important Considerations Before Making the Switch
While the UAE legal system allows you to change your lawyer at any stage, it’s essential to weigh the practical and strategic implications before moving forward. Below are some key factors to consider:
Risk of Delays in Your Case
Switching lawyers may temporarily slow down your case, especially if:
- A hearing or deadline is imminent
- The new lawyer needs time to review previous filings and court submissions
➡️ Plan the transition carefully to avoid procedural setbacks.
Costs Involved
Changing legal representation may involve additional financial commitments, such as:
A new retainer fee for the incoming lawyer
Duplicated legal work if the new lawyer needs to re-do or re-analyze aspects of the case
Settling outstanding dues with your previous lawyer
➡️ Ask for a clear breakdown of costs from both lawyers before making the switch.
Coordination Between Old and New Lawyers
A smooth transition often depends on cooperation between your current and new lawyer. This includes:
- Handing over case files and court documents
- Sharing case strategy notes or pleadings
- Coordinating any client handover documents, especially if hearings are scheduled soon
➡️ Lack of coordination may lead to information gaps or missed details in court.
How to Choose the Right Replacement Lawyer
Once you’ve made the decision to change lawyers, the most important next step is selecting the right replacement. A good lawyer can make a significant difference in the direction and outcome of your case—so choose wisely.
Here are key factors to consider when evaluating a new legal representative in the UAE:
Legal Experience and Specialization
Not all lawyers are the same. Make sure your new lawyer has:
- Proven experience in your type of case (e.g. civil, commercial, criminal, family law)
- A track record of handling mid-case takeovers
- Familiarity with UAE courts and local procedures
➡️ Specialized lawyers are better equipped to offer targeted strategies.
Responsiveness and Availability
Time is critical in ongoing legal matters. Ask yourself:
- Do they respond to emails and calls promptly?
- Are they accessible for urgent updates or hearings?
- Do they have the bandwidth to dedicate attention to your case?
➡️ Lawyers who communicate clearly and frequently build stronger client trust.
Reputation and Client Reviews
Look up testimonials, Google reviews, or referrals from trusted sources. Pay attention to:
- Overall client satisfaction
- Case outcomes and performance feedback
- Professionalism and ethics
➡️ Reputation reflects reliability and client-centric service.
Communication Style and Transparency
Legal matters can be stressful, so your lawyer should:
- Explain complex matters in simple terms
- Be honest about your case strengths and weaknesses
- Provide a transparent fee structure—no hidden costs
➡️ Choose someone who makes you feel informed and confident—not confused or pressured.
Can the Old Lawyer Withhold Documents or Files?
One of the most common concerns when changing lawyers mid-case is:
“Can my previous lawyer refuse to hand over my case files?”
The short answer is no—your lawyer cannot legally withhold your case documents.
UAE Ethics Rules Protect Your Right to Access
Under the Code of Professional Conduct governing lawyers in the UAE, clients are entitled to full access to their case files. Once the client–lawyer relationship ends, your former lawyer is ethically obligated to:
- Return all original documents and correspondence
- Provide copies of pleadings, court submissions, and legal opinions
- Cooperate in facilitating a smooth transfer to your new legal representative
➡️ The case belongs to you, not your lawyer.
How to Request a Legal File Handover
To retrieve your documents in a professional and legally sound manner:
Step-by-Step:
Send a written request (email or formal letter) to your former lawyer requesting the complete case file.
Specify a deadline by which the documents should be handed over.
If you’re appointing a new lawyer, you may authorize them in writing to collect the documents on your behalf.
What If the Lawyer Refuses?
If your former lawyer refuses to hand over your file without a valid reason (such as unpaid dues clearly outlined in your agreement), you may:
- File a complaint with the UAE Lawyers’ Disciplinary Committee
- Report the matter to the Dubai Legal Affairs Department or relevant authority
➡️ In most cases, a firm and respectful written request is enough to resolve the matter.
FAQs About Changing Lawyers in Dubai and the UAE
Still have questions about switching legal representation mid-case? Here are some of the most frequently asked questions answered by our legal experts in Dubai:
Can I change lawyers during a criminal, civil, or divorce case in the UAE?
Will changing lawyers affect my case outcome?
How long does the process take?
How quickly you terminate the old agreement
Execution and notarization of the new Power of Attorney (PoA)
The court’s schedule for updating legal representation
What happens to the legal fees I already paid to my previous lawyer?
A final statement of account
A refund of any unused balance (if applicable)
Your complete case file, regardless of payment status
Your Case Deserves the Right Representation
Choosing the right lawyer can make all the difference in the outcome of your case—and it’s never too late to make a change. If your current legal representation isn’t meeting your expectations, you have every right to protect your interests and seek better counsel.
Switching lawyers mid-case isn’t a sign of failure—it’s a sign that you’re taking control of your legal journey. Whether it’s due to poor communication, lack of progress, or simply a mismatch in approach, making a thoughtful change can bring clarity, renewed confidence, and better results.
If you’re unsure about your next step, consider seeking a second legal opinion. Sometimes, a fresh perspective is all it takes to make an informed, empowered decision.
