Legal Question in Legal Ethics in Virginia

I retained a lawyer for a misdemeanor charge. He requested a retainer of $3000. First meeting lasted about an hour where upon he sent a letter to the court claiming he was retained by me and asked for a continuance (new date) due to a scheduling conflict. On the new date he appeared and had a discussion with the County attorney. The case was continued again and I was assigned community service. Next court date, my lawyer did not even show up. The county attorney dismissed charges. Am I entitled to to a refund of any of the retainer money? At most, the attorney spent 3 hours on this.


Asked on 1/27/11, 5:02 am

1 Answer from Attorneys

Michael Hendrickson Law Office Michael E. Hendrickson

Well, yes, I would think so, but what were the terms of your retainer agreement with this lawyer?

And, if you don't know or are unsure, then make a written demand for a return

of at least half of the fee which you paid. (Afterall, as the old saw goes,

"them that don't ask usually don't get".)

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Answered on 2/07/11, 9:15 am


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