If i paid a portion of a retainer and would like to change lawyers, do I owe the remaining amount?

Your lawyer can charge for the time spent, but if he did not complete the job, he cannot charge you the full flat fee, if it is  more than the time spent.  You are free the change lawyers at any time.  He should provide you with an invoice detailing the time he spent on your case and showing what you have been charged. This answer is given in accordance with the laws of Virginia and may not be applicable in any other state.  It should not be construed as legal advice, as that would require a more thorough analysis of all of the facts involved in a specific case.  If you need further information or assistance, please feel free to contact my office for a consultation. Case results depend upon a variety of factors unique to each case. Case results do not guarantee or predict a similar result in any future case.