Attorney asking for more money suddenly

[raj3001]

What is the name of your state (only U.S. law)? NJ

Hi,

I had a flat fee agreement with an attorney, now suddenly in middle of the case, he is asking for more money. I told him all the specifics of the case and we had signed a flat fee agreement, now his mind is changed and he is holding me hostage as a date to file some paperwork is near and if I don't pay more, he will withdraw. Please let me know what my right are here?

Again, it is clear in the contract what exactly I will be charged but he is backing out. How do I ask the court to put the case on hold until I find someone else, since that will take some time? What can I do about my current attorney, can I file a complaint with the bar association?

Thanks.

 

[Isis1]

as you are not holding your contract with him up to the screen close enough, it's hard to tell.

what did the flat fee specifically cover? filing fees? work hours? legal expenses?

if this case is going beyond the scope of the initial agreement, you really don't expect him to work out of pocket, do you?

of course you can report anything to the bar. what actually happens, isn't up to you.

 

[raj3001]

The flat fee covered everything including and upto trial except filing and expert fees which I paid separately. I met on several occasions and explained everything, did not withhold any information. The scope is the same and there is nothing new.

Pls advice.

 

[TigerD]

As Isis implied. there is not enough information to answer your question.

How much was the flat fee?
What stage of the process are you at?
How does the contract address expenses, investigation, hearings, trial, depositions, subpoenas, etc.?

DC