Legal Question in Consumer Law in California

Did I get screwed?

I was in a car accident and hired an attorney, who did nothing at all. I went to pick up my file when I fired him and he asked me to sign a release. I signed a paper titled ''Release of file and Liability'', but upon reading it later I discovered the last sentence to say ''I also acknowledge and understand that the law offics of xxxxxxx have asserted a lien on my case''. What does this mean, I am concerned because the only thing in the file was what I had furnished to him and he had no expences relating to this case. Will he be able to take part of the settlement because of this?

Thank-you

Cara


Asked on 3/06/03, 10:46 pm

2 Answers from Attorneys
Alvin Tenner Law Office of Alvin G. Tenner

Re: Did I get screwed?

He does have a lien for the value of the work done by him. this may be an issue. However, if he in fact did nothing, your new attorney can contest his lien and negotiate with him/her.

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Answered on 3/07/03, 10:10 am
Frederick Choi Law Offices of Frederick H. Choi

Re: Did I get screwed?

An attorney is entitled to place a lien on a contingency case when they are substituted out. Any settlement would require his participation. However, your new attorney may be able to negotiate or dispute the claim.

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Answered on 3/07/03, 1:19 pm


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