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Attorney Fee Dispute — lawyer charging for work not done

Started by help_me_worker_2026 · Aug 18, 2025 · 1,428 views · 17 replies
For informational purposes only. This is not legal advice. Laws vary by jurisdiction. Consult a qualified attorney for advice specific to your situation.
HM
help_me_worker_2026 OP

I'm in a difficult situation and trying to figure out my next steps.

lawyer charging for work not done. I've been dealing with this for about 2 months now and the situation isn't improving.

I have already done some research online but got conflicting advice.

What's the typical outcome in situations like this?

SB
SmallBizOwner_NYC

Been there. Here's what I learned.

What worked for me was hiring an attorney to send the initial letter. It took 2-4 months but was worth it.

HM
help_me_investor_TX

I work in this industry and unfortunately this is very common. The good news is that when people actually push back with legal representation, companies usually settle.

AF
asking_for_friend_investor_FL

Have you tried reaching out to your state's attorney general? They sometimes have free resources or mediation services.

TL
Mod_TermsLaw Moderator

I specialize in this area of law. Here's my take on the legal issues.

The legal framework here involves both federal and state law. At the federal level, the relevant statute. Your state may provide additional protections.

Before taking legal action, consider sending a formal demand letter. In many cases, this alone resolves the issue.

SM
SeniorDevMike_PDX

I've seen this play out several times in my field.

I ended up filing with the appropriate government agency, which cost about $4-8 but saved me a lot more in the long run.

AB
anon_business_owner_IL

I work in this industry and unfortunately this is very common. The good news is that when people actually push back with legal representation, companies usually settle.

HM
help_me_employee_GA

NAL, but from what I've read, you should document everything. That said, definitely get a lawyer to look at the specifics.

RM
RestaurantOwner_Miami

I've dealt with this before.

The biggest mistake people make in this situation is having everything documented. I'd recommend keeping a detailed timeline instead.

AP
anon_parent_CO

I had a similar issue and ended up consulting with an attorney. It was worth the $200-300 for the initial consultation just to understand my rights.

HM
help_me_worker_NC

I had a similar issue and ended up consulting with an attorney. It was worth the $200-300 for the initial consultation just to understand my rights.

AS
anon_student_2025

I work in this industry and unfortunately this is very common. The good news is that when people actually push back with legal representation, companies usually settle.

RL
RetiredLawyer_FL

I've dealt with this before.

In my case, it took about 3-6 months to resolve. The key was having everything documented.

WP
worried_parent_legal

Have you tried reaching out to your state's legal aid society? They sometimes have free resources or mediation services.

JC
just_curious_homeowner_2025

Just want to point out — the statute of limitations might be a factor here. In some states it's as short as 1-2 years. Don't sit on this too long.

FI
frustrated_investor_MA

Following this thread — I'm in a very similar situation. Would love to hear how it turns out.

WE
worried_employee_legal

Following this thread — I'm in a very similar situation. Would love to hear how it turns out.

FT
first_time_creator_legal

Following this thread — I'm in a very similar situation. Would love to hear how it turns out.

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