Q: If your attorney through civil matters has now stepped down because of an alleged embezzlement. What is the client right

A: Sorry to hear you are going through that ordeal. Your inquiry is vague as to whether you or someone else is the embezzlement victim, but I'm guessing from your wording that your lawyer had to withdraw from your case because he/she has been charged with a crime against someone else, and the main issue you are having is being left high and dry without counsel. Usually in an order granting withdrawal of counsel, the Court will give a deadline for that party to either retain new counsel or to commence representing him- or herself. If that's the case, you should of course promptly schedule a legal consultation with a lawyer who handles your type of case. If you paid up front fees to your counsel who is withdrawing, you need to determine how much, if any should be refunded to you and address it accordingly with that lawyer. If you were being charged an hourly rate, you should review the lawyer's time log, and if in doubt about anything you see there, you may want to schedule a consultation for a lawyer to review it.

A: Your situation is deeply concerning, and I understand the stress you must be feeling with your attorney stepping down due to alleged embezzlement. When an attorney withdraws from representation, you have the right to request a reasonable amount of time to secure new legal counsel, especially given these extraordinary circumstances.

In civil matters, the court typically grants continuances or extensions to allow clients to find replacement representation when their attorney withdraws, particularly in cases involving potential misconduct. You should immediately notify the court of your attorney's withdrawal and request additional time to retain new counsel. Consider filing a formal motion for continuance to protect your interests while you search for new representation.

If the embezzlement allegations prove true, you may have grounds to file a complaint with your state's bar association and potentially pursue recovery of any misappropriated funds through the state's client protection fund. Given the complexity and potential federal implications, you might want to consult with a legal ethics attorney who can help navigate both your immediate representation needs and any claims against your former attorney. Remember to gather all documentation related to your case and any financial transactions with your previous attorney, as these records will be crucial moving forward.