Q: CAN LAWYER BE HELD ACCOUNTABLE
Had lawyer give me a contract for services flat fee 8,500.00. Then a couple of days later after I paid the flat fee says she has a revised contract with hourly fee and and will be cheaper I said ok if it saves me sure. However after everything was over she billed me additional 3000.00 I feel like I been had is there anything that can be done. this is unethical practice
A:
It depends on whether you and your attorney discussed the modified fee arrangement, and you authorized the modification, before the modification was made. Your summary suggests that you discussed and approved the modification. If so, there is probably not much you can do. Also, are there any writings, such as emails or texts, apart from the modification, that discuss the modification and the reasons for it? If so, these writings might be relevant.
If you have not already discussed the issue with your attorney, you should do so. She may be willing to compromise or waive the additional $3,000. At a minimum, she can explain to why the cost increased above the flat fee.
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