Malpractice case question for any lawyers out there or anyone prefer lawyers though?

my friend is in bad shape he had a gastric byp 5 yrs ago and was in alot of pain and due to long cut ,would be in pain until healed.13 months later he went to his dr#1 and complained of excruciating pain still. dr#1 said don't worry! well he wanted 2nd op. and dr#2 did egd and found a 4" jp drain protruding through his new stomach. he took it out. after many tests they said it damaged internal parts and will be in pain for ever . he got a lawyer and they used the dr#2 that removed the tube for expert witness. well then 3 years later the dr#2 that was the expert wit lost his license and was told he no longer has a case due to dr2 losing license! and lawyer said he would not put any more into the case because he was out $$$$k.before the dr#2 lost license he had perfect case. lawyer said no good. and lawyer says he wants to settle for costs. Is someone paid off???case changed from good to bad for him really quick? lawyer is closing case! is friend obligated to settle for fees?