When firing an attorney and getting a new one, is it common for the new one to ask if there is a lien on your case?

Yes, it is common. You might be speculating as to motive for asking. Was there a cross-complaint filed in your case?

Yes, this is quite common in personal injury cases. Your speculation may be correct or incorrect. Maybe the purpose is to reduce the lien. The question about the cross complaint by my colleague is that replying to a cross complaint in a contingent case is not covered by the percentage. If you feel the lien is based on overbilling, you have a right to fee arbitration under State Bar rules.

It is not clear from your question as to the facts of your case, however, the attorney-client relationship is a fiduciary one. Therefore, it would not be unusual for the attorney to ask such questions. In fact, the attorney may be required to ask such questions, in order for the attorney to satisfy his or her obligations that may arise from the representation.