Q: I need clarification. My atty filed a bankruptcy appeal and says she's working pro bono and that I am confused.
I need clarification on a question. My ex and I hired an atty to reopen a bankruptcy to include a PI case. She filed an appeal then sent contracts. When I ask questions she sends long emails and threatens to make me act as my own atty but won't answer my questions. She told my ex she is working "Pro bono, completely free" and has three other attys "volunteering their time" and that I am confused, but the contract says it is a contingency contract attached to my PI settlement includes the fees of other attys under expenses and says she gets 70% of any extra court awards with a lein attached in case she is fired. She has my ex convinced I am confused and says fee discussion is required in any type of contract and she is my atty because she was my bankruptcy atty. Then why send a new contract? Ques: If it IS pro bono, shouldn't it state "pro bono?" Why say "contingency" and discuss fees? Am I her client because she was my bankruptcy atty even if I don't sign the contract? My ex did sign.
A:
A good attorney will give his or her preliminary assessment of the case, go over fee arrangements, and discuss with the client whether the case makes sense for the attorney-client team.
You want a lawyer you feel comfortable with. Someone who responds to you with intelligence and compassion. Regardless of where the problems lie, your case is likely resulting in a poor relationship for both of you. Ask for a referral to someone who may be better equipped to handle your case.
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