In some law firms, the legal fees are paid in such a way that encourages attorneys to spend more time on a client’s case. These fees will increase according to the length of the case, giving that attorney more money for a case they should be trying to argue promptly for a client’s benefit. If an attorney intentionally slows down the legal process to collect more fees, they may be violating the basis of their client agreement.
If you are considering taking legal action against a former attorney because of their mishandling or overcharging schemes, we can help. For a no-cost case evaluation with an experienced advisor, contact the St. Louis legal malpractice lawyers of the Finney Law Office at 314-646-0300.
Ways an Attorney Could Be Overcharging by Stalling
If a client is expected to pay according to the length of a case, an attorney may neglect their client’s best interests in favor of an opportunity to overcharge that client for their services. While they may make it seem as if they are doing their job, the reality is that they are stringing a client along for more money.
This may be achieved through the following tactics:
- Scheduling depositions and meetings exceedingly far apart
- Claiming to require certain pieces of evidence or testimony that are unnecessary
- Breaking up courtroom appearances or meetings with the defense
In these situations, an attorney may be trying to extend a case artificially in order to make more money from a client. This may lead to decision-making that goes against a client’s best interests, which is against the client-attorney agreement into which the parties entered.
Contact Us
For help seeking justice and financial compensation from a previous legal representative that abused his or her position for financial gain, contact the St. Louis legal malpractice attorneys of the Finney Law Office by calling 314-646-0300 today.