What is the name of your state (only U.S. law)? - Illinois
My father was recently struck with a medical matter, and is unable to speak. I am the eldest son. He is able to comprehend for the most part, but has Aphasia and Apraxia. Long road ahead to recovery. As I had been asked multiple questions about his wishes, and POA, etc, I searched the house and discovered he had an engagement letter with a law firm, for estate planning, wills, POA and other related services. I contacted that firm to try to determine what he has completed, etc. They sent someone to visit with him, as "he had not granted them permission to speak to anyone about his case". They now have concluded he has granted them permission for me to speak with them. Now, of course, they want to charge me a few hundred dollars for a consultation call. Is this typical? I know time is money, but I am simply trying to determine what documents are executed and the form of them. To me, this is not a legal service, but simply an information request. My father has already paid them thousands for their services (for what, I don't know yet, as they won't tell me). I'll play ball initially but want to make sure I am not being taken for a ride. I have no reason to doubt the firm, but I am in uncharted waters as far as my expertise.
My father was recently struck with a medical matter, and is unable to speak. I am the eldest son. He is able to comprehend for the most part, but has Aphasia and Apraxia. Long road ahead to recovery. As I had been asked multiple questions about his wishes, and POA, etc, I searched the house and discovered he had an engagement letter with a law firm, for estate planning, wills, POA and other related services. I contacted that firm to try to determine what he has completed, etc. They sent someone to visit with him, as "he had not granted them permission to speak to anyone about his case". They now have concluded he has granted them permission for me to speak with them. Now, of course, they want to charge me a few hundred dollars for a consultation call. Is this typical? I know time is money, but I am simply trying to determine what documents are executed and the form of them. To me, this is not a legal service, but simply an information request. My father has already paid them thousands for their services (for what, I don't know yet, as they won't tell me). I'll play ball initially but want to make sure I am not being taken for a ride. I have no reason to doubt the firm, but I am in uncharted waters as far as my expertise.