What To Do If Your Lawyer Dies In the Middle Of Your Case

This presentation explains what to do if a lawyer passes away in the middle of an ongoing court case. It outlines practical steps to ensure continuity, such as securing documents, appointing new counsel, informing the court, and rebuilding missing records. It also addresses common concerns, such as whether a case must start over, if the opposing side gains advantage, and how to manage the emotional strain.

1. What To Do If Your Lawyer Dies Mid-Case A guide to navigating continuity in court cases By Siva Prasad Bose

2. Introduction Losing a lawyer mid-case feels catastrophic. But your case does not end. Courts preserve official records: petitions, affidavits, evidence, and orders.

3. Step 1: Secure Documents Collect essential documents: Core legal documents such as wills, deeds, contracts Court filings and past orders Affidavits, exhibits, evidence Fee receipts, notes, communication

4. Step 2: Appoint New Counsel Sign a fresh vakalatnama for a new lawyer. Choose relevant expertise as per your case (probate, property, criminal) Provide documents instead of narrating history

5. Step 3: Inform the Court New lawyer files vakalatnama and requests adjournment. Courts usually grant time for preparation

6. Step 4: Rebuild If Necessary If documents are missing: Request certified copies Apply for file inspection

7. Step 5: Care for Yourself Litigation is draining . L osing a lawyer makes it harder. Focus on health and peace of mind Let the new lawyer handle the case load

8. Frequently Asked Questions Do I have to start over? No, the case continues from where it left off. Will the other side gain advantage? Not if you act promptly. Can an assistant or junior continue? Only if qualified and experienced.

9. Conclusion A lawyer’s death mid-case is disruptive, but not the end. Secure documents, appoint new counsel, and rely on court records. The system is designed to continue. Your case remains alive.