What happens when a party is represented in an action and tries to change attorneys without proper procedures?

When a party is represented in an action and wishes to change their attorney, it is essential to follow proper procedures. If they do not adhere to these procedures, they may indeed be compelled to continue with their current attorney. Generally, the legal system requires that an attorney formally withdraw from representation and that the party seeking new counsel properly appoints their new attorney, often through a substitution of counsel process. Failure to properly execute these steps could result in the court refusing to recognize the change, which, in effect, requires the party to remain with their current representation.

The formalities are in place to maintain the integrity of proceedings and ensure that all parties involved have clarity regarding representation. This process is crucial not just for the party wanting to change counsel, but also for the attorney, the opposing side, and the court, as it minimizes disruptions and maintains an orderly legal process.

If these steps are not followed, other outcomes such as facing legal penalties for unauthorized withdrawal attempts or actions being dismissed without prejudice are less common or would usually require specific circumstances to arise. Therefore, the correct outcome in this scenario is that the party may be forced to continue with their current attorney if they do not follow the established procedures for changing legal representation.