More details to this question:
I contracted with an attorney for a flat fee for services. This contract happened verbally, nothing in writing. I immediately realized (within the day or the next day) that I had made a mistake regarding my culpability for the incident and did not wish to pursue legal action. I contacted his office the next day to cancel the contract and stop the process. I told him I would be happy to pay him for the work he had completed, but he needed to cease further action. He agreed (all verbally; still nothing in writing). Nothing happened, and I received a hearing date from the court. It took multiple tries to reach his office again. Ultimately, he sent me an invoice for more than double the original flat fee for ... I'm not entirely sure. Talking to me on the phone? Undoing work that I asked him not to do? I have call records but no other paperwork except this invoice. Am I obligated to pay these additional fees? This lawyer and I have no written agreements in place.
1 ANSWER
Anthony Van Zwaren
An attorney would need a written agreement (retainer agreement) in order to pursue fees. Should he try and pursue fees he is not entitled to the request has to include notice that you have a right to fee arbitration. You can also file a complaint with the lawyers' disciplinary board in your county. This is not really something that is considered a traffic violation topic.
Answered on Sep 15th, 2017 at 7:39 AM