Shady Lawyer/ Need Refund!

[huk]

What is the name of your state?What is the name of your state? Ohio
Ok, here's the deal**************.Friend hired an attorney to sue G.M.A.C. for unlawful vehicle repo on a handshake deal for 30% contingency.No money was suppose to change hands until settlement (case is extremely strong) all of a sudden, it's 100 bucks for this, 200 bucks for that, since September, 04, he's given the attny. $3000.00 and nothings been done. Desires to switch lawyers. Any recourse on getting the funds back???
thanks

[MinCA]

Your "friend" hired an attorney on a handshake, then willingly gave the attorney money when he/she asked for it. It was willingly given with no contract. I don't see any legal grounds for a refund with nothing in writing.

What kind of a person hires an attorney with nothing in writing anyway?