Legal Question in Legal Ethics in Michigan
Richardson/Stiel
What chance do I have against an attorney who entered a term on the final divorce order that states my 8,000 settlement should be made out two party to her and I? This term was NOT on the original order that we placed on the record with the judge. However she snuck it in later, I did not know of it and the judge did sign THAT Order. This term was never agreed to. It was too late and the seven day rule was entered and the divorce put through. I have not only disputed her bill in great detail but do not feel she is entitled to half of my settlement. She lied and unilatterally put this term on the order un-beknownst to me. She and the judge are also personal friends.
1 Answer from Attorneys
Re: Richardson/Stiel
You could go to the Attorney Grievance Commission, compare what was put on the record with what was placed in the judgment and most likely get the lawyer a reprimand. However, this may have no bearing on the attorney fee owed and for a $4,000 bill may be more problems than it is worth. William S. Stern