Legal Question in Business Law in California

termination of lawyer services

in early Nov. 2008 i had a meeting with a lawyer to set up an s-corp for my small buiness. At that time he said the entire process would cost $1400.00 he later determined that it would be best to launch the s-corp jan. 5th 2009. he told me in decmber he was ordering the ''Kit'' and it would be already to go in January. Well january 5th came and went. I contacted him again around the 10th. at that time he said he had been busy in court and would contact me in a few days. I have not heard from him since. I only hear from him when i contact him. He has an imprint of my visa but has not yet charged me anything. we have met in person 2 times, the first for an hour , the 2nd for half an hour.

Im tired of waiting, and of having this drag on. I want to know after all this time am i obligated to stay in this deal. I signed some kind of agreement. But dont see anything about a time limit. am i stuck? keep in mind this started around Nov. 5th 2008 or so. Isnt there some expectation to have this wrapped up in a reasonable lenght of time? your advice would be helpful.


Asked on 2/04/09, 2:12 am

3 Answers from Attorneys
Bryan C. Becker Your Lawyer for Life.

Re: termination of lawyer services

No matter how busy an attorney is there is no excuse for not returning as phone call after numerous attempts. Communication with a client is key. If you would like a second opinion as to service and cost for the s-corp, feel free to contact us.

Yours truly,

Bryan

619.400.4929

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Answered on 2/10/09, 8:21 pm
Michael Stone Law Offices of Michael B. Stone Toll Free 1-855-USE-MIKE

Re: termination of lawyer services

Practicing law is very difficult and time-consuming, and there but for the grace of God go I. Fire him if you must.

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Answered on 2/04/09, 2:36 am
John Gibson

Re: termination of lawyer services

I agree with Mr. Stone.

Additionally, most standard attorney agreements have clauses in them that say either the attorney or client can terminate the relationship at any time. Keep in mind that there is probably also a clause that says he can charge you for work performed up to the date you terminate the relationship (whether it is a flat fee, hourly or contingent fee arrangement). This would include any research and/or preparation work he has done. If you terminate the relationship you should probably expect a bill shortly thereafter.

If you decide to terminate the relationship I would do it, or confirm it, with a letter addressed to his place of business

If you still need legal advice and/or someone to setup the S Corp for you, feel free to contact me.

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Answered on 2/04/09, 2:18 pm


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