Adams & Clark, PC
Attorneys at Law
Suite 200
520 East Portland Street
Phoenix, Arizona 85004
(602) 258-3542
(602) 258-1377 FAX
Fee Disputes
Fee disputes are a part of doing business as an attorney. When looked at it in that light, you can avoid the normal defensiveness that’s natural when the fee you've charged is called into question. Generally, there are two kinds of disputes that arise regarding fees:
- Disputes with your clients. The best thing you can do is resolve these issues as quickly as possible. We can help you avoid costly, prolonged resolution of these issues. Not only can you move on with your life more quickly—you are also less likely to get a bar complaint that will only add to your troubles.
- Disputes with other attorneys. Whether you started work on a case, finished it, or represented your client by joining forces with another attorney, it is sometimes inevitable that disputes arise when it comes time to settle the fees. We can help you resolve such disputes in a way that will save you time, money, and peace of mind—as well as a potential bar investigation.
We can help you with proactive advice to avoid fee disputes, or assist you once a fee dispute has arisen. Our experienced attorneys can help you resolve fee issues with a minimum of time and expense. We can guide you through the process of State Bar Fee arbitration and the intricacies of quantum merit analysis. Our lawyers also act as expert witnesses.
State Bar Fee Arbitrations
The State Bar of Arizona has a process for resolving fee disputes whether they are between you and a client, you and your firm, or you and another lawyer. Our attorneys represent lawyers in State Bar Fee Arbitrations; we know how to present your case in a way that makes the arbitrator’s job easier, while at the same time, helping you get the compensation you deserve.
Fee Agreements
Many disputes can be avoided with a properly written fee agreement. Applicable ethics rules, opinions and discipline case law are constantly changing; most busy lawyers do not have the time to keep abreast of the latest requirements.
Our experienced lawyers can help. We will review your fee agreements and billing methods with you, and help you develop a more comprehensive and effective practice, so you can avoid future problems when your legal fees become due.
