Legal Question in Family Law in New York

retainer fee

After a year of waiting for a divorce, going back and forth to court, being charged for 100's of letters and emails regarding the same things over and over, I have depleted all my retainer fee. My lawyer knew from the beginning that I had no money and had to take a loan to pay for the retainer.(7,000.00) This is a no money case, just had to figure out child support, get the pension and annuity amounts for equitable distribution, etc. My lawyer sent me a letter one week before my court date telling me she no longer wants to represent me. She feels uncomfortable because she thinks I dont trust her?? I believe it is because she knows that I have no money left and I make very little money, just barely enough to pay my bills and have enough food and clothing for my daughter.

My question: Can she do that, one week before we are due in court? What will I do now? She said I can represent myself? I have no idea what to do or who to turn to now. Please help.


Asked on 10/07/08, 10:48 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
Michael Markowitz Michael A. Markowitz, PC

Re: retainer fee

A lawyer cannot just quit. He or she has to file a motion to be relieved as counsel. The attorney must give a reason to be relieved as counsel. Usually it is a money reason. Sometimes, the reason is that the client is not cooperating with the lawyer.

You may qualify for a reduced fee lawyer through the Nassau County Bar Association - tel:7474070

Mike.

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Answered on 10/08/08, 9:06 am


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