Attorney Sent Me A Bill, Closing Fell Through, Am I Required To Pay?
I had a deal that fell through a month ago or so. My attorney was going to charge me $500 for the closing. I'd have to say I didn't find his "work" very satisfying as most of the time I was doing the work. The contracts that were made for this closing, I had to modify myself. I conferenced with him a few times on the phone, and wrote some e-mails.
Anyway, it was my understanding that if a closing didn't happen, no one got paid. When I spoke with him before he never mentioned I needed to pay anything. So, I was very surprised to receive a bill for $321.97 in the mail today! He grossly over-estimated the time he spent and itemizes it. Duplication charges of $9, Fax charges of $12.00!?
Do I need to pay this bill? What would happen if I refused and he insisted? Could he sue me for this, or could this be put as a collection on my credit report somehow?
Any advice on this situation? I already decided back then never to use this guy already. I regret ever giving him any referrals either.
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Anyway, it was my understanding that if a closing didn't happen, no one got paid.
Do you have any of this in writing from your attorney? Maybe you could talk to him and come up with a compromise to the amount. If not, then he has performed services for you, and his rates are probably standard for his office.
Robert
Robert
Did you sign any contracts with him?
If not on any billing statement that is sent to you, simply sent it back and write on it: ""Without Prejudice UCC 1207" which means (if one studies the UCC codes)
I reserve my right not to be compelled to perform under any contract or commercial agreement that I did not enter knowingly, voluntarily, and intentionally. And, furthermore, I do not accept the liability of the compelled benefit of any unrevealed contract or commercial agreement.
This is very legal and unless he plans on overturning the Supreme Court, you win.