My lawyer retired and I need files

As a client, you are legally entitled to your files in most cases, either the original or a copy. You may have to pay some reasonable charges associated with getting the files to you, but you should be able to get the file. The attorney who retired may also have made plans with another firm or attorney to take over his files, which may mean you have to contact that firm or attorney to get the files. But you are still entitled to them.