Legal Question in Legal Ethics in Indiana

Questionable Legal fee's

A friend of mine was over payed child support by $1200.00. Her ex hired lawyer and sued her for this ammount. She (my friend) asked her lawyer would it not be better to settle for this ammount as she felt she did owe it. Her lawyer said no as if her ex lost he would pay legal bills for both. As it turns out my friend won and was awarded $300.00 in legal bills. But the lawyer presented her with a bill for $7000.00. My question is...does a possible $1200.00 settlement warrant a $7000.00 legal fee, especially when my friend said just pay him the 1200 and stop here, while attorney said ex would be responsible for her legal fee's too. Thank You,--name removed--


Asked on 10/27/00, 9:30 am

1 Answer from Attorneys
Stanley Spring Spring & Spring, LLC

Re: Questionable Legal fee's

Based upon the facts presented, the only time I'm aware a $1200 issue would warrant $7,000 in fees is in a particular matter where some principle is involved and counsel has advised the client that the legal fees could far outweigh any possible recovery. Under the particular set of circumstances you have relayed, you might wish to consider contacting the Bar Association of the state in which this happened. The Bar Association is certainly in a position to sort it out. I'm certain there are regulations on fees that will apply in your situation. You might also wish to hold the attorney to the deal: the ex spouse pays the fees and if the court only awarded $300, your attorney should seek the balance from the ex spouse.

Thanks for your question. Good luck and all the best.

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Answered on 11/16/00, 2:21 am


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