Legal Question in Legal Ethics in New Jersey

R

I recently went to see an attorney about a criminal case, we discussed it and he said he would need a $1,000.00 up front which I gave to him and we would work a payment plan out later. I was scheduled to appear in court a few days later with him which we both appeared but it was postponed. I told him that I wanted to take my case to trial and I did not want any plea bargains. A few days later he calls me and says he doesn't want to take it to trial so I said ok and wanted my money back, he said that I hired him to look into the case and that he got me a deal with the prosecutor which is not true I had the deal before I went to see him, public defender can verify this also. The only thing he did was go to court with me which was postponed. Can he get away with this?? Charging me $1,000.00 just for going to court & being postponed, isn't there somekind of fee schedule they have to go by?? and can I report or sign a complaint on him? I'm just finding out now that he has done this before. I will not mention his name but he is in bridgeton and everyone know's him by old crazy loud mouth. Please help thanks...


Asked on 10/26/02, 7:01 am

1 Answer from Attorneys
Charles Aspinwall Charles S. Aspinwall, J.D., LLC

Re: R

Write him a certified letter. Tell him you agree to pay $250 for his court appearance and you want the balance of your retainer returned. Give him a deadline of 5 days or so within which to do this. If he does not, contact your local bar association. They will provide you with forms with which to make a formal complaint.

Read more
Answered on 10/26/02, 9:54 am


Related Questions & Answers

More Legal Ethics & Professional Responsibility questions and answers in New Jersey