Legal Question in Criminal Law in Louisiana

I do not believe anyone can determine whether the attorney did his job from just what you have said here. You do not mention how much was paid and what the fee agreement was, nor do you mention any other particulars. The term "retainer fee" indicates that a deposit is made and then the attorney draws against that fee as he incurs billable hours. Some people think all money paid to an attorney is a "retainer fee." Many times a fee is paid for a service and no part of it is refundable. So, in your capacity as executor, write a certified letter, return receipt requested, to the attorney and request a detailed accounting of the "retainer fee." If that does no good, you may have to go to the bar association. However, I suggest you first sit down with an attorney so he can see all that you have, and he can ask you all the questions about all the details of the case etc, so he can give you a knowledgable answer to your questions. BTW, you should check with the clerk of court and ask to read your brother's record. That may contain answers to many of your questions.