Legal Question in Legal Ethics in Oregon

Must my lawyer produce itemized statement of expenses?

I was illegally fired from a job for filing a workman's comp

claim. There was an out of court settlement in my favor for

$125,000, of which my lawyer is asking $50,000. $14,000 of

this is for ''expenses'', which he originally estimated at $6,000. Since there was no jury trial, I don't see how he

overshot his estimate by so much, or why he didn't mention it along the way. When I asked for itemization he became

defensive and told me that it would take a long time to gather this information, knowing how much I need this money.

This seems to be so unethical! And I believe he can wait me out indefinately, as he knows that my insurance is due and I need this money to pay it. What do you think? Will the ''good old boy'' system prevail?


Asked on 7/25/02, 4:08 am

1 Answer from Attorneys
Charles Aspinwall Charles S. Aspinwall, J.D., LLC

Re: Must my lawyer produce itemized statement of expenses?

The 'ole boy' system will prevail only if you let it. Contact the OR Bar Association. Ask them about filing a complaint because of the behavior you have described. You are entitled to exactly what your engagement promised you, and a full and detailed accounting of where every penny goes. It's the law - enforce it through the Bar Association.

Read more
Answered on 7/25/02, 5:01 am


Related Questions & Answers

More Legal Ethics & Professional Responsibility questions and answers in Oregon