Legal Question in Criminal Law in California

Re: Attorney witholding clients retainer payment

Thanks for your question and posting.

If this client truly took your money and did not represent you, you can complain to the State Bar (and it sounds as though you have), or you can file a civil lawsuit against him or her. Or, you can demand an accounting of fees and negotiate to get your money refunded, if your fee agreement provided for a refund.

I hope this information helps, but if you have other questions, want more information, or feel you need legal representation (always a wise choice), please feel free to email me directly at [email protected]. Best of luck, and I look forward to helping you in any way that I can.