Hiring an attorney often requires a substantial financial commitment. Naturally, clients expect transparency, value, and integrity in return. Unfortunately, some clients walk away feeling overcharged or uncertain about the services they received. While the Rules of Professional Conduct strictly prohibit attorneys from issuing “phantom invoices” (billing for work not actually performed) or charging excessive fees, not every billing dispute rises to the level of legal malpractice.
So what options do you have if you believe your attorney's fees were unfair?
1. Fee Arbitration
One of the most common and effective remedies is to request fee arbitration. This process allows a neutral third party to review the fee dispute. The arbitrator considers the evidence, hears testimony from both sides, and determines whether the fees charged were reasonable under the circumstances.
2. Grievance with the Office of Attorney Ethics (OAE)
In addition to fee arbitration, clients may file a formal grievance with the Office of Attorney Ethics (OAE). If the OAE determines that the complaint merits further review, it may open an investigation. The case could then be referred to the Disciplinary Review Board, which evaluates whether the attorney violated ethical rules and, if so, what disciplinary action is appropriate.
Protecting Your Rights
If you're concerned about a bill you've received from an attorney or believe you were overcharged, it’s important to understand your rights and the available remedies.
Contact Simon Law Group, LLC today to speak with an experienced legal malpractice attorney. We can review your case and help you determine the best course of action to protect your interests.
Call today 800-709-1131 or text below and we can call you.
