Legal Question in Legal Malpractice in Maryland
attorney no show
I was sued in a frivolous suit this week and retained an attorney. I paid a $1500 retainer fee. The attorney never showed up at court. He did not call and I was thrown to the wolves my myself. I won the case and contacted the attorneys office after the court session. I have received only $675 back from my attorney. I think I am due all my retainer back. Am I?
2 Answers from Attorneys
Re: attorney no show
Without seeing the fee agreement I cannot say. Nonetheless an attorney that represents an appearance and does not show up for trial is walking a thin line. Contact me should you need legal services in the future.
Re: attorney no show
If the fee was paid for the attorney to appear in court and s/he didn't, I would think you should get your whole fee back. If the fee included other matters in the case (and if you got the benefit of that work), then a partial refund may be appropriate.