After calling around only to find out that other attorneys want huge retainers, I have decided to try to work with my attorney on my bill as a way to keep him around for our next hearing. I have drafted a letter and I want feedback from you guys-do I need to add or delete anything? I did not mention this in the letter, but I will add it if you think I should-I would be satisfied to give him the 3750 if he would agree to finish up my case with no additional charges. Nevertheless, here is what I have:
I received your letter regarding the fees and intent to withdrawal from my case if they are not paid. I would like to extend a thank you for what you have attempted to do to help me. While I realize that XXXX’s lack of cooperation has made this case lengthy and difficult, I hope that you agree that I have done everything I possibly can to be fair, compliant, and honest.
According to my records, I have paid you $4600.00. Your bill asks for another $3750.00, totaling $8350.00. As I look through the child support record, I will have received $5640 by the time of our next hearing on June 16th. Aside from the child support, there is an order for XXXX’s % of the medical bills and extracurriculars, but he has not paid me for those items as of today.
I have spoken with a few others in your profession and they adamantly feel that none of the property division issues will hold up in family court, as they never should have been filed there because family court lacks subject matter jurisdiction (as XXXX’s attorney attests). For that reason, I ask that you audit your records to exclude fees that were charged on my bill concerning property issues.
Ideally, you and I could agree on an amount that seems less excessive for a mere child support order. I want you to continue to represent me at the next hearing, as I am confident that you know my case well enough to resolve the few remaining issues.
Please let me know how we can work toward a resolution.
Thanks again,