My attorney was useless in my case. Yet, she was paid 5300 of MY money. I have wrote everyone I know and it has been under consideration since Aug of 07--when I was approved for SSD. I don't know what else do to. Its just not fair that she got that much money and ALL she did was show up for the hearing. I hired her after I was turned down the second time. She never returned my phone calls--when I did catch her in--twice--she had no idea how to help me--I was being evicted from my home. Yet, she didn't know about the dire need. She asked me--what do you want me to do--call the police on the judge----I told her--I don't care who you call--just help me. She never did a thing. ANY ideas would be appreciated.

Is there any type of legal aide services in the states?I would change lawyers.

My attorney was useless in my case. ANY ideas would be appreciated.

I would first call her and tell her how unhappy you are and that you feel you are being overcharged. Tell her that you want to work out some other form of compensation because in reality she does deserve something....But not what she billed you. I would tell her that you want to file a complaint with the bar association....Do so in a very professional, but stern way. That may get her attention. Explain to her how much you really need this money and that in all honesty, she didn't do much. Tell her you just want it over with so you both can move on. She may feel like a cut in the bill is worth not getting a complaint.

The bar association takes over charging very seriously. However, be careful not to threaten her....You don't want it to come across as blackmail (for lack of a better word).

If she rejects your complaint / offer, then I would follow through and file the complaint....they will want many details written out in your complaint, so be ready for that...Jot some notes down while they are fresh in your head.

Just playing devils advocate here....I believe you when you say she didn't do much....or anything....But it is possible that she indirectly helped just by being there....Anytime someone has a lawyer, I think the judge takes things more seriously and may not wanted a legal fight....Little did the judge know, huh (lol). Just throwing that out there in case she tells you this as a justification.

Other than the bar association, you probably don't have any other recourse. I'm guessing you had a signed contract with her so you're stuck there. If you don't pay, she'll probably file a judgement against your (plus interest) and you'll lose twice.

Good luck and check back and let us know what happened.

Ex