Legal Question in Family Law in California
I want to fire my attorney
It's been over a year since I retained my attorney to handle my divorce. His retaining fee was $3500, which is nonrefundable. Since last Sept., he has done relatively very little to help move along or settle my case and is demanding another $2,000 before he will do anything else. I have asked for a statement of expenses to see where the $3500 has been spent towards (2 separate requests; no response) before I can give him any more money.The way I see it is since I only met with him once for about an hour (@ $250/hr), I would have had to talk with him at least 13 hours to use up the original retaining fee. I feel he's nonresponsive, nonproductive, argumentative, and is trying to take advantage of me. I no longer want him as my representative b/c it is obvious that my needs are not in his best interest.How can I find a reputatble divorce attorney in the Bay Area (East Bay) who will get the job done w/out costing me an additional $3,500 retaining fee?Is my first attorney obligated to share the retaining fee?I know I signed an agreement with him but can't recall what it states regarding the fee other than it's non-refundable.Please help!At this point, the worst thing about my divorce isn't my ex, it's my lawyer!
2 Answers from Attorneys
Re: I want to fire my attorney
You can fire your attorney. Your attorney should be responsive, however, to your inquiries. I am not sure how complicated your case is without more information. Look for your retainer fee to see what it provides. Good luck.
Re: I want to fire my attorney
As to your inquiry, you may receive guidance from the California State Bar at www.calbar.gov (locate phone number and ask them for assistance). Since you are represented by counsel at this time, I can only advise you to meet/confer with your attorney or make the above inquiry.
Best Regards,
Michelle Garmong
949-337-6108
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