Legal Question in Criminal Law in California

My attorney took my case for a retainer of $7500. He promised me one thing- that he would make sure the police took a report of my being robbed. He told me he charged a very large retainer but was worth it. The case has been held over 5 times, each time because my attorney told the judge he needed more time to familiarize himself with my case. I am FINIALLY being sentenced tomorrow. I'm getting the same deal I was offered before I hired this attorney. Today I got a bill from my attorney for another $10,000. He told me I would only need to pay more if it went to trial. The only defense my lawyer is offering is my history of an excellent moral character and my 5 degrees from University. NO OTHER LEGAL STRATEGY HAS BEEN USED ALTHOUGH THERE ARE MANY HE COULD HAVE USED. He is charging me for all the times HE was not ready to go to court and had it held over. I've known my case was on the back burner, but this bill coming a day before the end, having been told the retainer would suffice and not hearing a word about additional fees has blown my mind and confidence. Shouldn't he have told me when my retainer was used up? We're talking $10,000 later I hear the first of this. Help.


Asked on 2/11/13, 3:45 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
David M. Wallin Law Offices OF David M. Wallin

All retainers need to be in writing. It needs to be clear about what services are being rendered and what fees are being charged. Take a good look at the contract (retainer)....iF THERE IS NO MENTION OF OTHER FEES IN THE WRITTEN DOCUMENT, NONE ARE OWED....If you feel you have not gotten what you were promised, you can always take the issue to California State Bar. I wish you well............David Wallin

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Answered on 2/11/13, 4:01 pm


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