Legal Question in Real Estate Law in North Carolina
An attorney refers a client to another attorney for real estate advice and there is no discussion with the 2nd attorney about paying for the consult. Several days later, the client receives a bill for $200. Is the client expected to pay this bill? There does not seem to be a meeting of the minds in this case.
1 Answer from Attorneys
I would agree that the lawyer should have some responsibility for disclosing his fee arrangements but I would also think you would have some duty to inquire beforehand as to what the fee will be.
If you feel that $200 is too high, I would write a letter indicating that no agreement was ever reached beforehand and either offer to pay a lesser some as settlement in full or indicate that you are not going to pay.
There is a fee dispute resolution through the NC bar which the lawyer has to notify you of and allow you the opportunity to participate in before he can take any legal action. Contact the NC State Bar for more information.
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