Legal Question in Legal Ethics in Hawaii

How To - DISPUTE Attorney FEES

I hired an attorney and dispute his 'late fees' on my bill.

The case was simple and short. He felt it would be covered by the retainer. I have two objections to his billing.

First, he knew of a medical hardship that brought my income to zero. His high monthly late fees ($30-$50) on the unpaid balance, made it almost impossible to ever pay it off completely. I asked for those to be taken off or lowered for hardship reasons, and I would make regular payments. He refused.

My other objection was that I disagree with the bill 'above' the retainer due to the fact that I told him absolutely do NOT, for any reason, do or charge me for work the other attorney could do, but asks him to do. That this other attorney definately would do this.

Then he did. I object to paying for something I directly said Not to do. I stated that if he felt the request was beneficial, to discuss it with me first.

The bill is now in arrears and has more than doubled (almost tripled) due to these charges.

What's the best thing for me to do. I have always paid my bills and occasionally negotiated with creditors whome have been very cooperative. This person is not.

Is there any law or entity that would help him bend a little?

1 Answer from Attorneys

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