Legal Question in Wills and Trusts in New York

Back in May, I hired a lawyer (who fyi charges 350 per hour) to help me pursue the right of election. Fast forward to today, and the case is still going for some reason. I got a bill about a week ago and it says I owe $8,500 so far. The amount I'm supposed to be getting is only $12,000.

My question is: How much do right of election cases usually cost? Is it normal to be charged this much? Please help.


Asked on 10/11/15, 11:52 am

2 Answers from Attorneys

David Slater David P. Slater, Esq.

For such a small amount, you should not have agreed to pay hourly. Either he reduces his fee or contact the Bar Association. Good luck.

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Answered on 10/11/15, 12:07 pm
Arnold Nager Arnold H. Nager, Esquire

You should have received a retainer letter from the attorney setting forth his fees. If you did not, you have grounds for a complaint to the Bar. The fee sounds excessive just for for filing a right of election. Further along, there may be a demand for an accounting, which would require additional time.

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Answered on 10/11/15, 5:15 pm


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