Legal Question in Civil Rights Law in California
Hello, I have a 2 1/2 year old Civil Rights case. I represented myself for the first 8 months, then had to hire an Attorney. I paid a $5,000 retainer, signed a continency contract. In early Feb, my Attorney requested additional funds to defend a Summary of Judgment. I refused, decided to represent myself. She informed me that I owe her $40,000, excused herself from my case. After defeating the summary of judgment, the judge has ordered us to mediation. My Attorney has never produced a bill. Am I obligated to pay her $40,000? Thanks, Walt
2 Answers from Attorneys
The written agreements would have to be reviewed, as well as the facts of the attorney's departure.
Any such fee dispute would be resolve after the case is over, by applying to your local bar association for help, and then only if the old attorney files a timely 'lien' against your recovery. I find it hard to justify such payment demand without clear authority in your retainer agreement.
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